REFERENCE SUFFICIENCY RANGES
VEGETABLE CROPS

Tomato, Trellis

C. R. Campbell

• Critical Values

  None established.

• Sampling Procedures

  The most recent mature or fully expanded leaf is the best indicator sample. This is generally the 4th or 5th leaf from the growing point.

  A sample containing eight to ten leaves is generally adequate. Midribs are removed after drying.

  Problem sampling is done any time during the growing season. Comparative good and bad samples help to pinpoint problems.

  Sampling to monitor nutrient levels should commence at least two weeks prior to first bloom and should continue at two-week intervals throughout the fruiting season.

  Samples are shipped to the laboratory in paper containers.

• Sufficiency Ranges
  
  
  • Most Recent Mature Leaf
    All growth stages
    
    

    Macronutrients
    N	P	K	Ca	Mg	S
    3.5–5.0%	0.3–0.7%	3.0–4.5%	1.0–2.0%	0.3–0.8%	0.2–0.8%

    
    

    Micronutrients
    Fe	Mn	Zn	Cu	B
    45–300 ppm	30–300 ppm	18–75 ppm	5–30 ppm	30–75 ppm

    
    

    Excessive or Toxic Nutrient Levels

    Boron becomes toxic at approximately 200 ppm and may cause distortion and burn of growing points. In severe cases, plants may to topped by the damage followed by decreased yields.

    Excess nitrogen is characterized by lengthened internodes and "bullish" growth in the top of the plant. In severe cases, fruit set may be affected. The N:K ratio appears to be more important than nitrogen concentration alone in determining vulnerability to fruit loss related to excess nitrogen. N:K ratios of 1.2 to 1.8 are ideal.

• DRIS Norms

  DRIS norms have not been reported for trellis tomato.

• Remarks

  Sufficiency ranges were developed from available references and experience reviewing analytical results.

• References

  Mills HA, Jones JB Jr. 1996. Plant analysis handbook II: a practical sampling, preparation, analysis, and interpretation guide. Athens (GA): Micro-Macro Publishing.

  Plank CO. 1989. Plant analysis handbook for Georgia. Athens (GA): University of Georgia Cooperative Extension Service. 64 p.

Electronic Document Prepared by:
Catherine Stokes, Communication Specialist
Agronomic Division of the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. July 2000.