Fertilizers for tomato fattening

Achieving the highest harvest percentage with proper size and color is the goal of all farmers. This is very important to market the products. Hence the importance of assessing the application, at the appropriate time and following the needs of the plant, of fertilizers for tomato fattening and, where appropriate, specialized biostimulants.

When the fruit setting phase, the plant requires an extra contribution of potassium. Deficiency of this element can lead to an irregular maturation, preventing the full formation of the fruits in many cases.

Symptoms of potassium deficiency can be observed by small fruits with non-uniform coloration being produced, with yellow spots in areas that do not mature enough. It also leaves weak stalks, chlorosis and scorched edges on the leaves, poor resistance to pests and diseases, as well as increased susceptibility to frost and droughts.

Fertilizers for tomato fattening: potassium and much more

The relationship between potassium, fruit growth and maturation shows the importance of this macro-element in the quality of crop production. However, other factors must be taken into account to ensure the size, color and flavor of the tomato, without harming the characteristics of each variety.

Besides the need for a nutrient balance, with an adequate balance of other macro-elements and micro-elements such as Boron, Molybdenum, Calcium or Magnesium, environmental factors such as temperature must be taken into account. Between 24 and 28 degrees (Celsius) or solar lighting are  optimal for maturation. The characteristics of the substrate significantly influence the process, since this is the natural source of nutrients.

Fertilizers for tomato fattening: the importance of the substrate

The most demanding agricultural producers look beyond the specific application of mineral nutrition. They pefer to ensure not only the size of the fruits in that campaign, but also the richness of the soil that gives them greater guarantee of success for the next crops. What is key is to take advantage of all nutrients in the substrate while maintaining the balance of the substrate for short and long term benefit.

The most suitable tomato fattening fertilizers are those combinig organic matter with high content of potassium. Some very specialized references even contribute fulvic and humic acids, vitamins and microelements. This is the case of Terrasei Engorde, from Seipasa.

The role of organic matter in tomato fattening fertilizers

Potassium fertilizers with high content of organic material such as Terrasei Engorde, significantly reduce potassium fixation inside the clays and its leaching loss in sandy soils. They increase both the concentration of potassium available and in solution in the soil. Its use favors the structure of the substrate, but also improves the absorption of potassium provided by conventional fertilizers.

Fulvic and humic acids contained in this reference are essential to regulate the physical and chemical properties of the soil and also to favor the development of beneficial microorganisms. This fertilizer has an immediate and slow release effect, helping to provide nutrients gradually.

Early maturation by applying fertilizers for tomato fattening

With the same conditions of temperature and illumination, it is possible to obtain a greater precocity and organoleptic quality in the process of maturation. This is because of fertilizers for tomato fattening. When it comes to Terrasei Engorde, results of the studies reveal considerable advance in maturation. As shown in figure 1 (corresponding to an experiment in which four applications of the product were carried out from fruit setting to harvesting) harvesting of the first fruits after maturation (days to first pick) was advanced 21 days.

Figure 1.- Days to first pick.

Fertilizers for tomato fattening: performance, size and color

Apart from favoring fruit maturation, field studies confirm that Terrasei Engorde ensures high performance (see figure 2) and a marked improvement in size (see figure 3), color (see figure 4), plant growth, length root and sugar content. Additional test data can be found here.

Figure 2.- Performance

Figure 3.- Fruit size

Figure 4.- Fruit color (%)

Advantages of liquid format in tomato fattening fertilizers

Organo-mineral fertilizers in liquid form such as Terrasei Engorde reach deeper soil profile compared to solid organic matter.

Biostimulants for tomato maturation and fattening

Biostimulants result in a specialized option so as to induce maturation and fattening of fruits and, depending on the characteristics of the crop and needs, could be combined with fertilization.

A reference specially addressed to this purpose, foliar and root application, is Sweetsei. This is a biostimulant of rapid assimilation. Besides advancing maturation, it increases fruit size while achieving uniformity and excellent color. Furthermore, it obtains greater elasticity, hydration and firmness due to an organic polymer incorporated in its composition. In the same way, it improves fruit behavior in post-harvest and favors the formation of sugars, improving the index of Brix degrees.