Enhancing Calcium Uptake in Tomatoes Grown in Saline Soils through Fertilization and Acidification.

Many growers in California are turning to higher value crops and low-volume irrigation systems to maximize production returns.  Particularly, cotton growers in salt-affected areas are transitioning to tomato production under drip irrigation.  However, tomatoes grown under these elevated sodium conditions can be subjected to limited calcium (Ca) availability. In an effort to compare calcium uptake, we are currently conducting a commercial scale randomized experiment comprising of two forms of Ca fertilizers and soil acidification with sulfuric acid injected via the sub-surface drip irrigation system.

Calcium levels in the soil, plant tissue and fruit will be monitored at various growth stages.