Distribution of boron and its uptake in the plant parts of two tomato varieties

Abstract

The effect of micronutrient boron application on dry matter yield, uptake and distribution in the plant parts of two tomato varieties (Roma VF and Dandino) were studied in a rainfed trial. Results obtained showed variations in boron distribution among plant parts. The concentration of boron ( B ) ranged from 6.0-109.0, 5.8-18.3 and 3.1-13.6 mgkg-1, in leaves, stem and roots, respectively. The effect of born rates on the DMY, B. concentration and uptake was highly significant (P=0.010) on the leaves and stem, but not on the roots. The concentration of B in both varieties was more in the leaves, than in the stem. The roots had the least B concentration. Among the varieties. Dandino, recorded higher B concentration in the various plant parts than Roma VF. Application of B increased fruit yield of tomato fruit by 233 and 192 % relative to the control for Roma VF and Dandino varieties respectively.