Geolife Tabsil: Optimizing Tomato Growth from Germination to Harvest with Ortho-Silicic Acid

Tabsil is a crop nutrition product and rich in ortho-silicic acid (OSA), essential for plant development and immune system development. It is the 5th important element for cell wall development and helps in crop strengthening. The effervescing tablet makes it easy to apply in fields with large water amounts. Application of Tabsil induces plant defense against a variety of biotic and abiotic stresses through morphological, physiological and biochemical mechanisms, which also improves disease, drought, and heat resistance. In this article, we will explore how Tabsil helps to optimize your tomato crop from germination to harvest stage and relish the mouthwatering flavors of freshly picked tomatoes. 

Tomato Crop

Crop Stages

1. Germination stage
2. Vegetative stage
3. Flowering Stage
4. Maturity Stage
5. Harvest Stage

Crop Management with Geolife Vigor at various crop stages

1. Germination Stage

Journey of a tomato plant begins with germination, which occurs when tomato seeds are planted and start to sprout. This stage lasts 5-10 days and requires warmth, moisture, and oxygen. As the seedling continues to grow, the primary root elongates and secondary roots branch out. Simultaneously, the shoot elongates, developing leaves and stems. The plant’s growth is directed by phototropism, which guides the shoot toward light. 

2. Vegetative Stage

This is the time when the plant will start to focus its energies on leaf production. During the vegetative growth stage, the tomato plant focuses on producing more leaves and stems, which support the development of flowers and fruits later. The vegetative stages last about 20-25 days. This stage is characterized by fast development and demands lots of nutrients like Tabsil – ortho-silicic acid, and sunlight, at least 6 to 8 hours per day. 

Crop Development

Tomato plants focus on developing a strong root system and an abundance of foliage. 

Stem and Leaf Development

• The tomato plant’s stems elongate, creating a taller structure.
• Lush leaves emerge and grow, contributing to the plant’s overall size.

Root System Expansion

• The taproot grows downward, anchoring the plant up to 3 feet deep in the soil.
• Shallow roots develop in the top 8 to 12 inches of soil, absorbing essential nutrients.
• Adequate water and well-drained soil are crucial for root health.

Consistent care, including proper staking, pruning, and nutrient provision, ensures vigorous vegetative growth. As the tomato plant thrives, it prepares for the next stages, including flowering and fruit formation. 

Product usage

• Application of Tabsil® during this stage is necessary, It helps in formation of root, Shoot and  leaves.
• Tabsil creates the layer of silicon below the epidermal layer in plants.
• Tabsil improves uptake & It enhances stress resistance, strengthens upright growth, regulates nutrient uptake, and improves water management, with this growth of stem, lateral branches and number of leaf increases.
• It improves the root penetration and higher chlorophyll production, leading to more photosynthesis and therefore an increased yield.
• The recommended dose is 1 gm / L of water for foliar application. Repeat the spray 15 days after the first spray or two times at 15-day intervals.

3. Flowering stage

The plants will grow between 12 and 18 inches tall, with little yellow flowers in bloom. Tomatoes that are determined to bloom release all of their blossoms simultaneously. Indeterminate varieties will continue to blossom all season. 

Crop Development

flowering stage of tomato plants, a pivotal phase in their life cycle. During this period, the plant transitions from vegetative growth to reproductive mode. 

Flower Development

• The flowering stage signals the beginning of reproductive growth. Tomato plants start to develop flowers, which are crucial for fruit production.
• Flowers typically emerge first at the lower parts of the plant and gradually progress upward along the stem.

Care Considerations

• Watering: Adequate moisture is crucial during flowering. Consistent watering ensures healthy flower development.
• Nutrient Supply: Provide Tabil –  ortho-silicic acid to support flower and fruit production.

Variations in temperature during this stage may cause plants to stop producing flowers. Temperatures above 29°C during the day or below 12°C at night may cause flower loss. When the plant is laden with fruit, its tap roots will extend down three feet to anchor the plant. In order to collect nutrients, shallow roots will grow in the top 8 to 12 inches of soil. 

Product usage

• At this stage the crop is susceptible to various pests and diseases. Tabsil activates a plant defense system that enhances plant health by providing a strong physical barrier against pests and diseases.
• Increases resistance against biotic and abiotic stress.
• Impact resistance in crops against disease and insects.
• Ortho-silicic acid present in the Tabsil will boost the tomato plant’s resistance to pests and diseases by fortifying its defense system. Tabsil helps to enhance the production of phenolic compounds. These phenols act as antioxidants and contribute to the plant’s defense.
• The recommended dose is 1 gm / L of water for foliar application. If required, repeat the spray 15 days after the first spray or two times at 15-day intervals.

4. Maturity Stage

During this stage, flowers develop into fruits. After fruit setting, fruit ripens over a period of 45 – 70 days, depending upon the cultivar, climate, and growth conditions. The fruit continues growing until the stage of green ripeness. Ripening occurs as the fruit changes color from light green to off-white, pink, red, and finally dark red or orange.  

Crop Development

Fruit Development

• After successful pollination, the flowers transform into small green fruits.
• These immature fruits gradually grow, developing into mature tomatoes.
• The fruit’s shape, color, and size vary based on the tomato variety.

Ripening Process

• As the tomatoes mature, they undergo color changes. Green tomatoes turn red, yellow, or other specific colors.
• Ripening is essential for flavor development. The fruit’s sugars increase, enhancing its taste.
• Texture also improves during this stage.

This stage sees the tomato fruits grow and eventually ripen, changing color from green to red, yellow, or other varieties’ specific colors. The ripening stage is crucial for developing the tomato’s flavor and texture. Consistent watering and avoiding excessive moisture fluctuations are important to prevent issues like fruit splitting or blossom end rot. Once the tomatoes are fully ripened, they are ready to be harvested​. 

Product usage

• Tabsil Improves the Overall crop stand, which helps to produce more fruits.
• Tabsil is applied through Foliar application as well as irrigation water at 1 gm / L of water.
• Silicon also strengthens cell walls, preventing lodging and enhancing plant uprightness. It regulates nutrient uptake and transport, regulates water balance, and enhances photosynthesis, contributing to overall plant growth.

5. Harvesting stage

Tomato harvesting represents an exciting milestone for farmers—a rewarding culmination of nurturing efforts. To achieve a bountiful and flavorful harvest, mastering the art of tomato harvesting is essential. Understanding the optimal timing for plucking ripe tomatoes from the vine and employing proper storage techniques are critical steps in preserving their quality and taste.  

Crop Development

When the plants are around three months old, tomatoes are harvested twice a week. Depending on the cultivar, soil, and climate, fruiting may last for one to two months. . Adequate amounts of ethylene are produced by harvested fruits, and this ethylene’s release facilitates the ripening process. When it comes to vitamin C content, fruits that ripen naturally have more than those that are artificially ripened. 

Ripening can also occur after harvesting, tomatoes ripen on the plant. The fruits are picked when they are fully green or beginning to turn pink and stored at room temperature (15–25°C) for artificial ripening. 

Remember that a well-timed harvest ensures flavorful, juicy tomatoes for your enjoyment!  

Conclusion

At every stage of tomato growth, attention to nutrient supply, environmental conditions and regular maintenance is crucial. By understanding and supporting each stage, the application of Tabsil can enhance tomato crop growth and development. Tabsil activates the plant’s defense mechanisms against pests and diseases, while also improving biotic stress resistance. Its convenient tablet form simplifies application, making it user-friendly and reducing the reliance on synthetic fertilizers. With Tabsil, farmers can ensure a successful harvest of delicious tomatoes from their fields.