Productivity of Cherry Tomato Cultivars as Influenced by Watering Capacities and Microclimate Control Designs

Abstract

Background: Cherry tomatoes remain relatively expensive due to limited public knowledge, few producers, and lower productivity rates in Indonesia. Although cherry tomatoes are increasingly popular in modern marketplaces, they are still uncommon in traditional markets. Cherry tomatoes have an enormous economic impact on many regions, particularly Indonesia, in the broader agricultural environment. Their cultivation, however, may be impacted by problems with water supply and climatic regulation. By evaluating how various watering capacity and microclimate control strategies affect cherry tomato productivity, this study seeks to address these challenges. The research is anticipated to offer farmers and agricultural practitioners useful information to improve cherry tomato output in response to market demands and sustainability concerns. Objectives: The objective of this study is to determine the effect of cultivars on the growth, yield, and quality of cherry tomatoes. Methods: The research is designed to determine the effect of each cultivar (Ruby, Fortesa), watering capacities (100% ETc, 75% ETc, 50% ETc), and microclimate control designs (Greenhouse, Rain shelter, Screen house) on the growth, yield, and quality of cherry tomatoes. Results: The cultivar Fortesa produced the highest possible fruit, biological yield per plant, maximum marketable fruit output, greater growth index, maximum fruit firmness, and water use efficiency. The cultivar Ruby performed better in terms of root-shoot ratio and fruit elasticity. The greenhouse produced the highest possible fruit and biological yield per plant, marketable fruit yield, growth index, leaf chlorophyll content, fruit firmness, elasticity and water use efficiency. In the watering capacities treatment condition, 100% ETC was more significant for parameters, such as marketable fruit yield, root-shoot ratio, growth index, leaf chlorophyll content, fruit firmness, and elasticity. Conclusion: Growing cherry tomato cultivar Fortesa in a greenhouse using a watering capacity of 100% ETc under the results is recommended. These conditions have improved fruit quality, making them favorable options for successful cherry tomato cultivar production.