Effects of Nitrogen Fertiliser Application Methods on Quality and Yield of Different Tomato Varieties

This study investigates the effect of nitrogen fertilizer application methods on the quality and yield of different tomato varieties, focusing on Candela and Alambra F1. The experiment was conducted in Lusaka, Zambia, utilizing three nitrogen application techniques: fertigation, foliar application, and band application, alongside a control group with no fertilizer. The results indicated significant differences in both yield and quality attributes between the varieties and application methods. Fertigation consistently outperformed other methods, producing higher yields and improving fruit quality in terms of size, color, and nutritional content. This research highlights the importance of selecting appropriate nitrogen application methods for optimizing tomato production, particularly in regions with similar agro-ecological conditions to Zambia. The findings offer valuable insights for farmers seeking to maximize efficiency and profitability while minimizing environmental impact.