Common physiological disorders of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) fruit found in Swaziland.

Abstract

Physiological disorders of tomato fruit are abnormalities in fruit morphology, colour, or both which are not caused by infectious diseases or insects. The fruit abnormalities occur as a result of environmental stress on the plant. Reported causes of physiological disorders include genetic, environmental factors, nutrition and cultural practices such as watering practices, training and pruning. Physiological disorders encountered in this study included blossom end rot (BER), catface, cracking, internal white tissue, irregular ripening, puffiness, pox and fleck, rain check, zippering and sun scald. Ways of alleviating physiological disorders are suggested. Data was sought through content analysis, sample laboratory analysis, surveys in the various agro-ecological zones of Swaziland and brief interviews from key farmers in tomato growing communities.