In the course of tomato growth and development, plants require a balanced supply of essential nutrients. When any of these nutrients are insufficient, visible symptoms appear on the plant's structure, which can significantly impact both yield and fruit quality. Understanding these deficiencies and their remedies is crucial for maintaining healthy and productive tomato crops.
Nitrogen deficiency typically causes slow growth, with older leaves turning yellow-green initially, and the entire plant appearing pale as the condition progresses. Leaves become small and upright, while veins may turn dark purple. Stems become tough, and fruits are smaller in size. To address this, apply ammonium bicarbonate or urea mixed with decomposed organic fertilizer (10–15 times the volume) around the base of the plant after watering. A foliar spray of 0.2% ammonium bicarbonate solution can also be effective.
Phosphorus deficiency often leads to purple discoloration of leaves, with brown spots forming and leaves becoming stiff. The leaf veins may turn purple, and stems become long and fibrous. Fruit production is delayed. Prevention involves applying phosphate fertilizer during seedling and planting stages, and foliar sprays of 0.2% to 0.3% potassium dihydrogen phosphate can help.
Potassium deficiency starts with black-brown spots at the leaf tips, along with dark brown spots on stems and curled leaves. Root development is stunted, and young fruits may drop or become deformed. To correct this, ensure adequate potassium application through organic fertilizer and use potassium sulfate around the plant. Foliar sprays of 0.2% to 0.3% potassium dihydrogen phosphate or 1% wood ash leachate can also be applied.
Calcium deficiency results in thin, wilted plants with yellowing and shrinking of the inner leaves. In severe cases, the heart leaves die, and the middle leaves develop dark brown patches. Fruits are prone to blossom-end rot. To treat, apply lime or calcium chloride solution (0.3%–0.5%) to the foliage every 3–4 days for 2–3 applications.
Magnesium deficiency shows up as yellowing between the veins of older leaves, with curling and necrotic spots. A foliar spray of 1%–3% magnesium sulfate can help restore balance.
Sulfur deficiency causes pale green, upward-curling leaves and reduced fruit set. Adding sulfur-based fertilizers like ammonium sulfate can resolve this issue.
Boron deficiency leads to chlorosis or orange-red discoloration, with a dark growing point that may die off. Stems and petioles become brittle, and fruits may be deformed. Spraying with 0.1%–0.2% borax solution every 5–7 days for 2–3 times helps alleviate the problem.
Manganese deficiency results in light green leaves with a reticulate pattern and yellowing between the veins. A foliar spray of 1% manganese sulfate can effectively address this issue.
By recognizing these nutrient deficiencies early and taking timely corrective actions, gardeners and farmers can maintain the health and productivity of their tomato crops.
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