Optimizing Yield and Quality in Tomato Cultivation: A Review of Horticultural Strategies and Environmental Factors
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Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) is one of the most economically important vegetable crops globally, with increasing demand for both high yield and superior fruit quality. This article provides a comprehensive review of horticultural strategies and environmental factors that significantly influence the optimization of yield and quality in tomato cultivation, particularly in controlled environments such as greenhouses and hydroponic systems. We delve into the impacts of plant management techniques (e.g., planting density, pinching, grafting), water and nutrient management (e.g., water stress, electrical conductivity of nutrient solution, disinfection), and their effects on dry matter production and fruit quality attributes (e.g., soluble solids content). The discussion also addresses challenges related to disease management in soilless cultures and the role of modeling in yield prediction. By synthesizing findings from recent research, this paper highlights integrated approaches crucial for sustainable and efficient tomato production, emphasizing the need for precise control over environmental and physiological parameters to meet market demands for both quantity and quality.