Optimizing Water Productivity in Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) using Fixed Partial Root-Zone Drying Irrigation

Abstract

The field experiment was conducted during the summer season of 2023 at the College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, Dediapada, Narmada, Gujarat, to evaluate the effects of fixed partial root-zone drying (FPRD) irrigation levels on the growth, yield, and quality of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.). The study included four treatments: T₁ (100% PRD one side), T₂ (75% PRD one side), T₃ (50% PRD one side), and T₄ (full irrigation both sides as control), laid out in a randomized block design with three replications. Results revealed that T₁ recorded the highest plant height (54.2 cm), stem diameter (6.49 mm), number of branches (22), number of leaves (111), and leaf area (11.4 cm²). Soil moisture content was maximum in T₄ (25.52%), followed by T₁, while the lowest was in T₃. Yield parameters showed significant differences among treatments. The maximum average fruit weight (169.3 g) was recorded in T₄, which was not significantly different (NS) from T₁ (163.3 g). The maximum yield (174.5 t/ha) was recorded in T₄, closely followed by T₁ (164.4 t/ha). TSS values ranged from 4.73 to 4.88%, showing no significant difference. Among the FPRD treatments, T₁ maintained comparable yield and superior vegetative growth relative to full irrigation, indicating efficient water use. The results suggest that 100% fixed PRD on one side (T₁) is the most suitable irrigation strategy for tomato under semi-arid conditions, achieving high yield with approximately 50% water saving compared to the control.