Basf highlights benefits of using grafting on tomato plants

Brazil is among the ten largest tomato producers in the world, according to data from the National Supply Company (Conab). Several varieties are cultivated in Brazil throughout the year. Therefore, some techniques are recommended so that farmers can have more health and productivity when growing table tomatoes.

It is in this context that the grafting technique is indicated. Its objective is to unite the tissue of two different plants at the stem and explore the favorable traits of each one.

A nunhems, Basf's brand of fruit and vegetable seeds, makes the rootstock hybrid available to the tomato growing chain Expower, technology focused on the open field.

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The technology can generate up to a 30% increase in productivity in tomato cultivation and also a higher percentage of better-graded fruits, contributing to the farmer's profitability.

The solution makes it possible to increase the quality of plants and fruits, contributing to better use of the planting area, increasing the longevity of Brazilian tomato farming. All this combined with the effective control of soil diseases such as Fusarium 3, Verticillium and nematodes.

Farmer Geraldo Gobbi stands out for sowing the cultivation of exerto in an open area in the mountainous region of Espírito Santo. “The use of this technology on my property provided a more productive tomato area, with a high level of vigor and durability. Furthermore, I achieved an increase in the profitability of my business, as I did not have any losses in the last harvests”.

Nunhems offers a complete package with pre- and post-harvest assistance, ranging from correct management techniques to the continuity of the farmer's production.

Celeiro Verde, a nursery specializing in vegetable seedlings, has been investing in the grafting market for nine years. As it is artisanal work, the nurseryman believes that in addition to generating more jobs, the technology offers more benefits for the entire tomato chain.

“The use of rootstock allows us to help our farmer clients bring the best of their fields to the end consumer,” highlights Antônio Ledo, owner of Celeiro Verde.

The benefits of using grafting in tomato cultivation for the farmer are:

§  Greater productivity and profitability;

§  Plants with greater resistance to diseases and climate;

§  Reuse of already cultivated areas;

§  More rational use of resources and inputs;

§  Fruits of better quality and shine.

“Understanding the needs of the Brazilian farmer, Nunhems began a long work of research on rootstock, which was traditionally used in greenhouses, for the open field. With this new concept, we created a pioneering and advantageous business for the entire tomato farming chain: companies, nurseries, farmers and end consumers. This technology generates jobs, profitability in the field and quality fruits on the table”, highlights Guilherme Hungueria, Nunhems tomato manager for South America.

To find out more information about Basf's fruit and vegetable brand, farmers can access the website.