Role of Magnesium in Tomato Production
Magnesium is required for many processes including transfer of energy and protein synthesis. With 20-25 % of the plant’s total magnesium localized in the chloroplasts, it is particularly important for chlorophyll production.
Magnesium and ripening disorders
Magnesium is particularly important in ensuring even ripening of well-formed fruit, as studies in UK show.
Magnesium and fruit shape
Magnesium also influences the shape of the fruit.
General guidelines for magnesium application
A regular supply is needed throughout the life of the crop. Up to 54lb/ac of magnesium is used by a tomato crop. Magnesium uptake can be depressed by an excess of other cations, so it is important to maintain a correct balance. Particular care is needed in fertigation systems.
| Magnesium at tomato growth stages | |
| Vegetative growth | Maximizes concentrations in leaf tissue prior to flowering |
| Flowering - fruit set | Improves flowering and crop production – maximum requirements are at this stage |
| Fruit ripening - maturity | Maximum requirements are at this stage for quality fruit production |
