Effects of Foliar Fertilization and Growth Regulators on Growth and Yield of Tomato Plants

Author

George A. Reynolds, Prairie View A&M University

Date of Award

8-1979

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Degree Discipline

Agriculture

Abstract

Foliar fertilization or the direct application of plant nutrients to the foliage has been successful in increasing the yeilds of crops. This method of fertilization is particularly important in situations where 1). nutrients applied to the soil are fixed or unavailable, 2). nutrient deficiencies appear during the growing season and rapid correction is desired. In addition, the drip of run-off is not lost for it falls on the soil from which it may later he absorbed.

Absorption of nutrient elements through the leaf, stem and bark takes place rather easily, however, large amounts of nutrient ions cannot be applied at any one time because of the possibility of leaf damage. Thus, it is difficult to supply the total macronutrient needs of plants by this means. A possible exception is the application of nitrogen as urea.

Micronutrients and some of the secondary nutrients can be satisfactorily applied as foliar sprays since only small amounts are needed.

Foliar fertilization is used most frequently on fruit trees and vines. However, it has also been used on row crops, small grains and vegetables. This is a unique method for the nutrient elements can be applied simultaneously with insecticides, fungicides, pesticides and growth stimulants.

This study was designed to determine the effects of foliar fertilization in combination with growth regulators on the height and dry matter yield of tomato plants.

Committee Chair/Advisor

J. B. Collins

Committee Member

E. Brams

Committee Member

A. S. Mangaroo

Committee Member

C. Strickland

Committee Member

N. Keys

Publisher

Prairie View A&M University

Rights

Date of Digitization

3-24-2022

Contributing Institution

John B Coleman Library

City of Publication

Prairie View

MIME Type

Application/PDF

Recommended Citation

Reynolds, G. A. (1979). Effects of Foliar Fertilization and Growth Regulators on Growth and Yield of Tomato Plants. Retrieved from https://digitalcommons.pvamu.edu/pvamu-theses/1395