Effect of Pruning And Fertilizing Potassium On The Productivity of Tomato Plants (Solanum lycopersicum L.)

Abstract

The productivity of tomato plants (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is greatly influenced by the application of proper cultivation techniques, including pruning and fertilizing practices. This study aims to examine the effect of the interaction between pruning intensity and potassium fertilizer dose on the growth and yield of tomato plants. The study was conducted using a factorial Group Random Design (RAK) consisting of two factors, namely three levels of pruning (no pruning, light pruning, and moderate pruning) and three doses of potassium fertilizer (0, 75, and 150 kg KCl/ha), with three replications. The results showed that moderate pruning treatment combined with potassium fertilization at a dose of 150 kg/ha provided the best results on almost all growth and yield parameters, including plant height, number of fruits, fruit weight, and total yield per hectare. The interaction between the two treatments has a significant effect on plant productivity. Pruning is able to direct vegetative growth in a generative direction, while potassium favors fruit formation and yield quality. Thus, the integration of optimal pruning techniques and adequate potassium fertilization is an effective strategy to increase the efficiency of tomato production in a sustainable manner. The results of this research can be the basis for recommendations for tomato cultivation that is more productive, efficient, and environmentally friendly.