Bioscience Methods 2024, Vol.15, No.6, 356-368 http://bioscipublisher.com/index.php/bm 362 is limited, and maximizing vertical growth can lead to higher yields. The integration of these techniques can be a viable way to increase the production of cherry tomatoes, as they help in maintaining plant health and improving fruit quality (Ahmad et al., 2017). Figure 5 Difference of mature cherry tomato fruit in control greenhouse and CRAM-CO2 treatment greenhouse. (Scale bar is 1 cm) (Adopted from Karim et al., 2010) 5.3 Regulation of the growth environment using mulching and ground cover Mulching and ground cover are effective techniques for regulating the growth environment of cherry tomatoes. Mulching helps in conserving soil moisture, reducing weed growth, and maintaining a stable soil temperature, all of which contribute to improved plant growth and yield. Studies have shown that the use of organic mulches, such as crop residues, can significantly enhance the productive indexes of cherry tomatoes by improving growth indicators like leaf area, plant height, and fruit weight (Cipriani et al., 2020). Ground cover techniques, such as the use of leguminous green manures in intercropping systems, can also improve soil fertility and structure, leading to better nutrient uptake and higher yields. For instance, intercropping cherry tomatoes with legumes like cowpea bean and dwarf velvet bean has been shown to increase the number and weight of marketable fruits (Salgado et al., 2021). These techniques not only improve the growth environment but also contribute to sustainable agricultural practices by enhancing soil health and reducing the need for chemical fertilizers. 6 Pest and Disease Control for Cherry Tomatoes 6.1 Diagnosis and management of common diseases Cherry tomatoes are susceptible to various diseases, with gray mold (Botrytis cinerea) and leaf spot being among the most prevalent. Gray mold is particularly notorious for causing significant postharvest losses. Effective diagnosis involves identifying symptoms such as grayish mold on the fruit surface and lesions on leaves and stems. Management strategies for gray mold include maintaining proper ventilation and humidity control in greenhouses to reduce the favorable conditions for fungal growth (Ji et al., 2020; Brito et al., 2021). Leaf spot, caused by various fungal pathogens, manifests as small, dark lesions on leaves, which can coalesce and cause defoliation. Regular monitoring and early detection are crucial for managing these diseases effectively. In addition to cultural practices, chemical and biological treatments play a vital role in disease management. Sodium pheophorbide A (SPA) has shown promising results in controlling gray mold by inhibiting spore germination and mycelial growth. SPA disrupts the cell wall integrity and membrane permeability of B. cinerea,
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