A study of the influence of excess concentrations of certain salts on the growth and development of glasshouse tomato plants, with special reference to the specific ion effects of theses salts : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Horticultural Science at Massey University, New Zealand
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Date
1964
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Massey University
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Abstract
The yield and quality of fruit obtained from a glasshouse tomato crop is determined by the genetic make-up of the variety and the environment in which the crop is grown. The closer the environment to the optimum for the variety concerned, the closer the genetic limits will be approached. The environment can be divided into two parts - the above ground environment and the below ground environment. The below ground environment affects yields and quality through three primary factors: (a) Moisture availability. (b) Nutrient availability. (c) Physical condition of the soil. High levels of soluble salts in the soil can so influence these three factors that plant growth and development can be greatly depressed. With glasshouse tomatoes, depressions due to changes in the physical condition of the soil have not been reported, and are, in fact, not likely to occur. Under glasshouse conditions, the development of high concentrations of soluble salts results from the excess use of fertilizers and not from natural processes. Over a period of years, high fertilizer rates, unless combined with adequate management techniques, will build up the salinity to a critical level. This build up results from the carry over of unused fertilizers at the end of the season, due to excessive applications of fertilizers to the soil, and also from the use of fertilizers containing one ion which is not absorbed by the plants to any extent. [From Introduction]
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Tomatoes