Marketable Tomato Yields in Relation to 2,4D Drift
Applied Research
Maggi Mathews
Ogden
Abstract
Tomatoes are extremely sensitive to 2,4 D formulations, with even the smallest drift causing revenue loss to vegetable producers due to the necessity of replacing affected plants. While it is not recommended to consume said fruits, there is no clear answer on the level of toxicity that the fruits contain after accidental exposure. This trial evaluates the effectiveness of actions to recoup losses and still gain marketable tomatoes. Seedlings were planted in high tunnels running east to west beginning of April, with row spacing of 6 ft, and plant spacing of 22 in. Accidental drift of a 2,4D formulation affected the eastern half mid-April. Plots were set up beginning of May, with 4 replications of 4 treatments – affected, pruned, replanted and control/healthy. Harvest ran from July 12 to September 13, with data collected thrice weekly. Yield of marketable and cull fruits were collected, with a seeable difference between treatments and time, with exposure possibly affecting length of production time in plants. Combined results were analyzed using statistical programs and lead to possible future field studies under Utah State University, increasing options for tomato production under drift of 2,4D.
Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted only for display at AM/PIC. Poster is not to be judged, but the abstract will be published in the proceedings.
A poster file has not been provided
Authors: Maggi Mathews, Cody Zesiger, Milena Olivera
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Mathews, M. Extension Agent, USU, Utah, 84404
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Zesiger, C. Extension Agent, USU, Utah, 84404
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Olivera, M. Extension Specialist, USU, Utah, 84321