Plants of tomato hybrid Momotaro T-93, grafted on two rootstocks (Anchor T and Kaguemusha hybrids) and ungrafted, utilized as control, were compared for development, nutrient uptake, fruit yield and quality after being transplanted at three growth stages (5 to 6 leaves, early flowering and early fruiting). The experiment was set under protected cultivation conditions in the Universidade do Estado de São Paulo, Brazil, from October 1997 to July 1998. The experimental design was a randomized in factorial scheme with four replications and nine treatments. The evaluated characteristics were fruit yield and quality, fruit weight and diameter. Fruit yield, diameter and weight were highest for ungrafted plants transplanted at 5 to 6 leaves stage. Fruit yield, weight and diameter for grafted plants were not affected by transplanting at 5 to 6 leaves or early flowering stages. Grafting and transplanting stages did not affect fruit quality.
Lycopersicon esculentum Mill; protected cultivation; quality; transplanting stage
