Hydrophos - nutrient source for tomato production
Phosyn research carried out in North America over the last 3 years has shown excellent yield results from Hydrophos applications to processing tomatoes.
In 1998, as part of a Phosyn programme, and in 1999 and 2000 as single product applications Hydrophos gave an average yield of 12%.
1998 - A yield increase of 9.3% from Hydrophos application as part of the Phosyn programme.
1999 - Hydrophos application resulted in 5% more yield.
2000 - Hydrophos gave a 22% yield increase.
As a key production parameter for tomatoes grown for processing quality, soluble solids (which carries a premium payment) were also increased in 2 of the 3 years projects.
The research in 1999 and 2000 not only focused on improvements in yield, but the effects of Hydrophos on other quality parameters were also investigated. A key compound for colour appeal in tomato ketchup, lycopene, was increased by 4% in 1999 - the work continues.
Author: James Craske, North America
Published: June 2001