Growing tomatoes in glasshouse in soil beds

Tomatoes are one of the most popular crops grown in greenhouses and for good reason. Growing tomatoes in a glasshouse allow for greater control over the growing environment, resulting in healthier plants and a more abundant harvest. In this article, we will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of growing tomatoes in a glasshouse in soil beds, as well as common diseases that can affect tomato plants.

Advantages of Growing Tomatoes in a Glasshouse Soil Bed

• Greater control over the environment: Glasshouses provide growers with the ability to control temperature, humidity, and light, which allows for optimal growing conditions throughout the year.
• Longer growing season: By growing tomatoes in a glasshouse, you can extend the growing season, allowing for more harvests per year.
• Higher yields: With the ability to control the environment and growing conditions, tomato plants grown in a glasshouse can produce higher yields than those grown outdoors.
• Protection from pests: Growing tomatoes in a glasshouse protects them from common pests such as birds, rodents, and insects.
• Reduced water usage: Tomatoes grown in a glasshouse can be watered more efficiently, reducing water usage and saving on water costs.

Disadvantages of Growing Tomatoes in a Glasshouse Soil Bed

• Cost: The initial cost of constructing a glasshouse can be expensive, and ongoing maintenance costs must also be considered.
• Limited space: Glasshouses can be limited in terms of space, and the number of plants that can be grown may be limited by the size of the structure.
• Dependence on technology: With the use of technology to control the environment, there is a risk of system failures, which can be costly and detrimental to the plants.
• Disease susceptibility: Tomatoes grown in a glasshouse are at a higher risk for certain diseases, as the controlled environment can create conditions favourable to pathogens.

Common Diseases of Glasshouse Tomatoes

• Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can be identified by a white, powdery coating on the leaves and stems of the plant. It can be controlled through proper ventilation and use of fungicides.
• Verticillium wilt: A soil-borne fungus that can cause wilting, yellowing, and stunted growth of the plant. It is difficult to control but can be managed through crop rotation and soil sterilization.
• Fusarium wilt: Another soil-borne fungus that can cause yellowing and wilting of the plant, as well as stunted growth and reduced yield. It can be managed through crop rotation and the use of resistant varieties.
• Tomato mosaic virus: This virus can cause yellowing and mottling of leaves, as well as reduced yield. It can be spread through contaminated equipment, so proper sanitation measures should be taken.

Growing tomatoes in a glasshouse soil bed has many advantages, including greater control over the environment, longer growing seasons, higher yields, protection from pests, and reduced water usage. However, there are also disadvantages, such as the cost of construction and maintenance, limited space, dependence on technology, and susceptibility to certain diseases. By understanding the risks and implementing proper measures to control disease, glasshouse tomato growers can enjoy the benefits of this growing method.