Tomato

Solanum lycopersicum

MediumFruit60-90 days
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Overview

Tomatoes are heavy feeders that thrive in hydroponic environments, often producing higher yields than soil-grown counterparts. When growing in Nutrient Film Technique (NFT) systems, careful monitoring is required to ensure the vigorous root systems do not clog the channels, causing overflow or oxygen deprivation. Trellising is essential for support.

Growing Requirements

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pH Range

5.5 - 6.5

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EC Range

2 - 3.5 mS/cm

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TDS Range

1000 - 1750 ppm

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Temperature

18°C - 26°C

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Light Requirement

High (16 hours/day)

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Nutrient Needs

High Nitrogen during vegetative growthHigh Potassium and Phosphorus during flowering and fruitingCalcium to prevent Blossom End RotMagnesiumIron

Growth Timeline

1

Germination

5-10 days

Seeds require warmth (20-25°C) and high humidity to sprout. Keep in rockwool cubes or starter plugs.

2

Seedling

2-3 weeks

First true leaves appear. Introduce weak nutrient solution (EC ~1.0). Transplant to NFT channel once roots emerge from the starter plug.

3

Vegetative

3-4 weeks

Rapid vertical growth and leaf production. Increase Nitrogen levels. Pruning of suckers is vital for indeterminate varieties.

4

Flowering & Fruiting

4-8+ weeks

Plant shifts energy to flower production. Switch to bloom nutrients (higher P and K). Pollination assistance (shaking or fans) is required indoors.

Common Issues & Solutions

Root Clogging (NFT Specific)

Symptoms:
  • Nutrient solution overflowing channels
  • Water starvation in downstream plants
Causes:
  • Root mass growing too large for the NFT channel profile
  • Growing indeterminate varieties in small channels
Solutions:
  • Use larger channels (100mm+)
  • Trim roots (risky)
  • Choose determinate or dwarf varieties

Blossom End Rot

Symptoms:
  • Black, sunken spots on the bottom of the fruit
Causes:
  • Calcium deficiency
  • Inconsistent pH
  • Rapid growth spurts
Solutions:
  • Supplement with Cal-Mag
  • Maintain stable pH
  • Ensure adequate airflow for transpiration

Pythium (Root Rot)

Symptoms:
  • Brown, slimy roots
  • Musty smell
  • Wilting leaves
Causes:
  • Reservoir temperature too high (>24°C)
  • Low dissolved oxygen
Solutions:
  • Use a water chiller
  • Add air stones to reservoir
  • Use beneficial bacteria or H2O2

Harvesting Guide

When to Harvest

Harvest when the fruit has reached its full mature color (red, yellow, or purple depending on variety) and yields slightly to gentle pressure.

How to Harvest

Gently twist the fruit off the vine or use sterile scissors to snip the stem just above the calyx (the green star-shaped cap).

Storage Tips

Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight. Do not refrigerate, as this degrades texture and flavor.

Expected Yield

High; 5-10kg per plant over the season depending on variety and system health.

Photo Gallery

Tomato - Image 1
Tomato - Image 2
Tomato - Image 3

User Reviews

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