Tomato
Irrigation guidelines for tomato production, the leading vegetable crop in Oman.
Season water
400-600 mm
Soil moisture target
70–85%
Recommended irrigation schedule
Adjust slightly based on soil type, local climate, and field observations.
Transplanting
Immediate irrigation after transplanting
Vegetative Growth
Every 3-5 days
Flowering
Every 2-3 days
Fruit Development
Every 2-4 days
Best practices in the field
- Use drip irrigation to avoid wetting foliage
- Maintain consistent soil moisture to prevent blossom end rot
- Avoid water stress during flowering and fruit set
- Reduce irrigation frequency as fruits mature
- Water in early morning to allow foliage to dry
- Monitor soil moisture at 20-40 cm depth
Common mistakes to avoid
- Overhead irrigation causing fungal diseases
- Irregular watering causing fruit cracking
- Water stress during fruit development
- Watering too late in day keeping foliage wet overnight
- Over-irrigation leading to root problems