Influence of different insect-net houses on Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) plant growth, pest infestation and fruit quality in Semi-arid Region

Studies on pest dynamics, tomato plant growth, yield and quality were carried out under different net-houses (NHs) in semi-arid region of Punjab. Four dome-shaped NHs were constructed to create favourable microclimate for plant growth. Inside the NHs and in open field for comparative studies. NHs were found useful to create favourable microclimate for tomato plant growth and also for minimization of pest infestation in the semi-arid region. Few disease causing insect pests (aphid & whiteflies) were able to enter into 25 and 40 mesh NHs, even then not as severe infestation as in open field was found. Vigorous tomato plants growth was achieved under NHs with more stem diameters ranging from 1.2 ± 0.1 to 1.6 ± 0.1 cm. Whereas, stunted plant growth with more pest infestation were found in open field conditions. Inside the protected structures, 2–3°C less temperature of fruit and leaf surfaces was observed than that of the open field during daytime. Comparatively, colour values of tomato fruits indicated more redness in NHs than the open field and also significantly more fruit size, weight and yield were recorded under NHs, while somewhat more carotenoid contents were recorded in fruits of open field. No significant changes were found in TSS, acidity (%) and ascorbic acid. Nevertheless, lycopene contents was significantly more in NHs fruits. Thus, valuable advantage for improved fruit appearance was recorded under NHs with uniform red ripening and attractive appearance.