Determination of Relationships Between Number of Stem and Yield of Tomato (Lycopersicon lycopersicum L.)

In this study, relationships between number of stem and yield were investigated for some indeterminate tomato varieties. Two different stem applications (single and double-stem) and ten different indeterminate tomato varieties were used. Experiments were carried out at randomized blocks split plots experimental design with three replications during the years 2004-2005. Stem applications were applied in main blocks and varieties were applied in sub-plots. Plant total yield (kg plant-1), total number of fruit per plant (number plant-1), marketable plant weight (g) and marketable yield (t ha-1) were taken into consideration. Correlation and path analysis were carried out between marketable yield and the other plant characteristics. It was observed that plant total yield and number of fruit per plant had significant and positive effects but number of stem had negative effects on marketable yield of tomato. Then, it was concluded that varieties with higher total yield, total number of fruit and adaptation capability should be selected and single stem application should be implemented for higher and quality marketable yield in tomato.