Effect of transplanting time and mulching on growth and yield of tomato

A field experiment was conducted to study the effect of transplanting time and mulching on growth and yield of tomato. Among different dates of planting, early planting (10^th December) recorded the highest vegetative growth, yield attributes, early and total fruit yield; whereas it was vice-versa in case of 20th January planting. Among different mulch materials, black polyethylene retained higher soil moisture and temperature as compared to other materials and control. Further, fruit yield was significantly higher with black polyethylene mulch compared to other mulch materials. Highest net returns (Rs. 52,700/ha) was recorded under early (10^th December) planting date and mulching with black polyethylene treatment combination, which was significantly superior to all other treatment combinations.