Some effects of an antitranspirant (Vapor Gard) on tomato growth and yield

Maximum crop production is closely related to the availability of water, an d water loss from plants during transpiration may be reduced by the applica tion of an antitranspirant (AT) that could increase leaf resistance to diff usion of water vapor. Research was conducted to evaluate the effects of an AT (Vapor Gard, VG) on vegetative and reproductive development, dry matter partitioning and yield of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) plants. Tw o irrigation experiments comparing 1) a control (no VG); 2) VG applied befo re flowering; and 3) VG applied before flowering, at fruit initiation, and after first harvest; were conducted at Bradenton, FL in 1997, Plant develop ment and dry matter production for the vegetative parts of tomato plants we re increased by VG. This positive effect of VG on vegetative growth and dev elopment was likely due to an increase in leaf temperature in the absence o f transpirational cooling and/or improved plant water status due to lower t ranspiration, There were no significant effects of the VG on fruit yield.