Assessment of Yield and Quality Traits of Tomato Hybrids Across Varied Planting Dates in Southern Telangana, India

This study evaluates the yield and quality traits of three tomato hybrids—US-440, PHS-448, and Heemsona—across varying planting dates under semi-arid conditions in Southern Telangana. Conducted at the Water Technology Centre, PJTSAU, Hyderabad, the research employed a Factorial Randomized Block Design, focusing on eight transplanting dates between March and October 2020. Significant differences were observed in several parameters, including average fruit weight, number of fruits per plant, total yield, and quality traits such as total soluble solids (TSS) and ascorbic acid content. The mid-October planting (D7) resulted in the highest average fruit weight (66.12 g) and yield (61.94 t ha⁻¹), highlighting this period as the most favorable for optimal productivity. Hybrid Heemsona consistently outperformed the others, achieving the highest yield (47.96 t ha⁻¹) and TSS (3.99° Brix), demonstrating its potential for both quantity and quality. However, the study revealed a trade-off between quality traits and yield, with TSS and ascorbic acid content inversely related to yield performance. Additionally, higher nitrogen uptake and dry matter production were linked to the D7 planting, stressing the importance of nutrient management during this critical planting window. The findings underscore the significance of selecting the appropriate planting date to enhance tomato production in semi-arid regions, providing valuable insights for growers aiming to balance yield and quality. This research offers practical guidance for optimizing tomato cultivation through strategic planting and hybrid selection.