Effect of Different Mulches on The Growth, Yield and Economics of Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum L.)

A field experiment was conducted on tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum L.) at during growing season (December-April) in 2013-14 and 2014-15, in a randomized complete block design with four replications. Treatments consisted of three colored polyethylene mulch (red, black and silver) with organic mulch and as controls. Results showed that the highest soil temperature was recorded under red plastic mulch. The highest plant height, number of flowers per cluster, SPAD value, fruit weight and yield also recorded in red mulch than black and silver plastic mulch as compared to least without mulch. The plants grown on red mulch produced maximum marketable yield.