Vol. 9, Special Issue 10, Part M (2025)

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is one of the most important vegetable crops in India, with increasing demand for sustainable production practices. Silicon has been recognized as a beneficial element that enhances plant growth, stress tolerance, and yield, yet it is often not in available form in soils. Diatomaceous earth (DE), a natural source of amorphous silica, was evaluated as a source of silicon amendment in tomato cultivation. Field experiments were conducted at RHREC, Hiriyur, Karnataka, using the variety Arka Ananya in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with nine treatments. Treatments consisted of the recommended package of practices (POP), 50% POP, and their combinations with DE at 250, 500, and 750 kg/ha, along with a DE-alone treatment. Growth attributes, yield, silica uptake, and economics were assessed. Results revealed that the application of POP + DE (750 kg/ha) significantly improved leaf number, branching, and yield (65.73 t/ha), while in the second treatment POP + DE (500 kg/ha) recorded the highest yield (63.29 t/ha). Half POP + DE treatments also enhanced yield compared to 50% POP alone, indicating a potential reduction in fertilizer use without compromising productivity. Economic analysis showed maximum net returns in POP + DE (750 kg/ha and 500 kg/ha in). These findings suggest that DE is an effective silicon source, improving tomato performance and offering a sustainable approach to fertilizer management.