Production Potentials of Tomato and Capsicum under Poly House Condition in Kerala

An experiment was conducted in Farming Systems Research Station, Sadanandapuram, Kottarakkara, Kerala to evaluate the performance of trailing tomato and capsicum with respect to vegetative and yield parameters under protected structures along with an open field (control). Highest yield was recorded in poly house structures than in open field for trailing tomato and capsicum. The increase in yield was to the tune of 82.84% and 90.85% for trailing tomato and capsicum respectively and shelf life better in poly house. Bacterial wilt affected trailing tomato and wilt and thrips in capsicum even in poly house structures. During second trial, grow bags (40?24?24 cm) was used for planting trailing tomato and capsicum in poly house and in open field. The bags are treated with Phytolan (2grams/lt) and Streptocyclin (0.2g/lt) for controlling bacterial wilt. The increase in yield was to the tune of 300% and 321% for trailing tomato and capsicum in poly house structures respectively compared to first trial. It was found that micro climatic parameters were varied between poly houses and outside. Solar radiation (PAR) inside the polyhouse was reduced by about 50% compared to the open field while air and soil temperatures were always remained higher. The relative humidity was less in poly house structure compared to outside the structure (5-8% increase in outside). The tallest plants, maximum number of branches/plant and higher leaf area expansion were found in the crops grown under poly house as compared to natural condition (i.e. open field).