Bioscience Methods 2024, Vol.15, No.6, 356-368 http://bioscipublisher.com/index.php/bm 359 3.2 Preparation of seedbeds and optimal planting density The preparation of seedbeds and the determination of optimal planting density are essential for maximizing cherry tomato yields. Proper seedbed preparation involves ensuring that the soil is well-drained, fertile, and free from pests and diseases. The use of organic amendments, such as compost or green manures, can improve soil structure and fertility, providing a conducive environment for seedling growth. For example, intercropping cherry tomatoes with leguminous green manures has been shown to enhance soil fertility and improve plant growth, leading to higher yields (Salgado et al., 2021). Optimal planting density is another critical factor that influences yield. Research has shown that planting density affects root distribution, nutrient uptake, and overall plant health. For instance, studies have indicated that a balanced planting density allows for adequate root expansion and efficient nutrient uptake, which are essential for high yields (Shabbir et al., 2020a). Additionally, maintaining an appropriate distance between plants can reduce competition for resources and minimize the risk of disease spread, further contributing to better plant health and productivity. 3.3 Early management strategies and pest prevention Early management strategies, including proper irrigation, fertilization, and pest prevention, are crucial for the successful cultivation of cherry tomatoes. Effective irrigation management, such as the use of deficit irrigation techniques, can optimize water use efficiency and improve fruit quality. For example, deficit irrigation has been shown to enhance the concentration of beneficial compounds in tomatoes, such as lycopene and vitamin C, while also conserving water resources (Lu et al., 2020). Implementing precise irrigation schedules based on plant needs can thus lead to better growth and higher yields. Pest prevention is another vital aspect of early management. Integrated pest management (IPM) strategies, which combine biological, cultural, and chemical controls, can effectively reduce pest populations and minimize crop damage. The use of biostimulants and organic amendments can also enhance plant resistance to pests and diseases. For instance, the application of optimized fertilizer and pesticide inputs has been shown to reduce environmental impacts while maintaining high yields (Guo et al., 2021). By adopting these early management strategies, growers can ensure healthy plant development and achieve higher productivity in cherry tomato cultivation. 4 Water and Fertilization Management for Cherry Tomatoes 4.1 Implementation of efficient irrigation systems (e.g., drip irrigation) Efficient irrigation systems, such as drip irrigation, have been shown to significantly enhance the yield and water use efficiency (WUE) of cherry tomatoes. Drip irrigation allows for precise water application directly to the root zone, minimizing water loss due to evaporation and runoff. Studies have demonstrated that drip irrigation can lead to a substantial increase in crop yield and WUE compared to traditional irrigation methods. For instance, a meta-analysis revealed that drip fertigation increased yield by 12.0%, WUE by 26.4%, and nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) by 34.3% while reducing crop evapotranspiration by 11.3% (Li et al., 2021). Additionally, the use of multiple emitters per plant under drip irrigation has been found to optimize root distribution and improve water and nutrient uptake, further enhancing yield and WUE (Shabbir et al., 2020a; 2020b). Moreover, the strategic implementation of drip irrigation can mitigate the effects of water scarcity, particularly in arid regions. Research conducted in northwestern China indicated that drip irrigation, combined with appropriate nitrogen levels, significantly improved tomato yield, fruit quality, and WUE (Du et al., 2017). The study highlighted that moderate irrigation levels (75% of crop evapotranspiration) coupled with optimal nitrogen application (250 kg N ha⁻¹) provided the best results in terms of yield and resource use efficiency. Specially using drip irrigation tape to achieve precise and efficient utilization of water (Figure 3).These findings underscore the importance of adopting efficient irrigation systems to achieve sustainable and high-yielding cherry tomato cultivation.
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