Transforming India Through Agriculture

About Tomato Cultivation

The tomato, botanically known as Lycopersicum esculentum, belongs to the family Solanaceae. It is a significant commercial vegetable crop in India, characterized as a herbaceous, sprawling plant that can grow between 1 to 3 meters in height, with a weak, woody stem. Tomatoes thrive in warm seasons, requiring both warm and cool climates, but they are sensitive to frost and high humidity. Tomatoes are exceptionally nutritious, containing protein, fiber, sugar, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. They are widely used in Indian cuisine in soups, salads, pickles, ketchup, purees, sauces, and many other dishes.

Problems Faced by Farmers

The primary challenges in tomato production for farmers include the lack of effective irrigation systems, the prevalence of pests and diseases, and insufficient knowledge of chemical management. These issues often result in low-quality crops and insufficient yields.