Comparison Between Open Space and Shaded Area in the Yield Performance of

Tomato

A Research Paper Presented to the Faculty and Staff of

Pindasan National High School
Mabini, Davao de Oro

In Partial Fulfillment of the

Requirements in
(Practical Research 2)

Parcon, Andrie Gian

Gumban, Aleah
Mino, Juverly
Gumban, Joren
Balungcas, Shane
Navarro, John Rey
Moran, Glen Paulo

March 2024
 Chapter 1

PROBLEM AND ITS SETTING

Background of the Study

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) is a commercially significant vegetable

worldwide, celebrated not only for its culinary versatility but also for its nutritional value.
It is cultivated extensively in various climatic regions, contributing significantly to the
agricultural economy. The importance of optimizing tomato production has led
researchers to explore various agricultural practices, particularly the effects of
environmental factors on yield and quality. Among these factors, the use of shading
techniques, such as shade nets, has gained popularity in response to rising
temperatures and the need for sustainable production methods. Recent studies indicate
that shading can enhance tomato yield by improving thermal conditions and reducing
the incidence of sunscald, thereby promoting better fruit development.

Globally, tomato production is influenced by diverse climatic conditions and cultivation

practices. In Serbia, for instance, the area dedicated to tomato production spans
between 2,500 and 3,000 hectares in greenhouses, with field production for processing
dominating at approximately 20,000 hectares (Ilić et al., 2011). High summer
temperatures often necessitate the use of shading nets to protect crops from excessive
solar radiation (Ilić et al., 2011). This practice has shown promising results in enhancing
tomato quality and yield, as indicated by various studies. For example, research
conducted in Spain demonstrated that movable shade during intense sunlight increased
marketable yield by 10% (Adams et al., 2001). Similarly, shading has been shown to
reduce the incidence of disorders such as sunscald and uneven ripening, leading to
improved fruit quality (Dorais et al., 2001). In light of these findings, understanding the
impacts of shaded and open field conditions on tomato yield performance becomes
crucial for improving agricultural practices, particularly in regions facing similar climatic
challenges.

In the Philippines, tomato is extensively cultivated and is considered one of the most
profitable crops in the country, ranking as the second most important fruit vegetable
after eggplant (Altoveros & Borromeo, 2007). In 2012, global tomato production reached
approximately 161.8 million tons, cultivated across 4.8 million hectares (FAOSTAT,
2012). The Philippines contributed around 214.6 thousand metric tons of tomatoes from
16.7 thousand hectares (BAS, 2015). The consumption of tomatoes among Filipinos
continues to rise due to their versatility and nutritional value. Tomatoes are rich in
essential nutrients, including minerals, vitamins, amino acids, sugars, antioxidants, and
dietary fiber, all of which contribute to a healthy and balanced diet.

However, tomato production in the Philippines faces several challenges. The crop is
highly susceptible to various diseases, such as fusarium wilt, root rot, verticillium wilt,
and bacterial wilt, which can significantly reduce yield and quality and, in severe cases,
lead to plant death. Among these, bacterial wilt, caused by *Ralstonia solanacearum*, is
one of the most critical and widely distributed plant pathogenic bacteria in tropical,
subtropical, and warm temperate climates (Hayward, 1991). This pathogen affects over
200 plant species across 50 families (Hayward, 2000) and remains a significant biotic
factor limiting the growth and development of various important solanaceous crops,
including tomato, potato, eggplant, pepper, and tobacco (Anith et al., 2004). The
ACIAR-ICM (Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research-Integrated Crop
Management) field site has reported severe contamination with this pathogen, impacting
solanaceous and cucurbit crops (Abrantes, 2013; Borines et al., 2016; Dimabuyu et al.,
2016; Gonzaga et al., 2013; Lacostales, 2015; Sumalinog, 2015; Tuyan, 2015).
To sustainably control diseases such as bacterial wilt, the application of soil organic
amendments can be a viable strategy. These amendments not only provide essential
nutrients to the soil but can also suppress soil-borne diseases. The use of organic
amendments is a traditional practice that enhances soil health and fertility, resulting in
higher crop yield and quality. These amendments are rich in macro and micronutrients,
vitamins, growth-promoting hormones (such as IAA and GA), and beneficial
microorganisms (Sreenivasa et al., 2010). Additionally, incorporating organic matter into
agricultural soils enhances the natural suppression of soil-borne pathogens by
promoting beneficial microbes, which create biological competition and antagonism
while improving the physicochemical properties of the soil (Janvier et al., 2007). Various
organic amendments, including wedelia (Holopainen, 2004), devil weed (Ana & Sugha,
2011), cabbage waste (Brown & Morra, 1997), chicken dung (Gonzales et al., 1993),
sunflower (Agustin, 2007), and carbonized rice hull (Gregon et al., 2000), have been
noted for their effectiveness in improving soil properties and suppressing soil-borne
diseases.

Furthermore, growing vegetables under protective structures has been reported to

enhance vegetable crop yields and provide preventive measures against pests
(Gonzaga et al., 2013). In Pindasan, Mabini, Davao de Oro, local farmers are
increasingly adopting these sustainable practices, including the use of shading
techniques and organic amendments, to improve tomato production. The present study
aims to investigate the effect of various organic soil amendments on tomatoes grown

under protective structures compared to those cultivated in open fields, addressing the
specific needs and challenges faced by the agricultural community in this region.
Statement of the Problem

Tomato cultivation is essential for food security and economic stability, yet the impact of
environmental factors on yield performance remains a critical concern. This study aims
to address the following questions:

1. What is the yield of tomatoes in terms of grams when grown in open space
compared to shaded area?

2. How does the circumference of tomatoes differ between those grown in shaded
areas and those in open spaces?

3. What is the total number of fruits produced per plant in shaded areas versus
open spaces?

By examining these questions, this research seeks to determine the effectiveness of

shading as a cultivation practice and its potential to enhance tomato yield and quality.
The findings will provide valuable insights for farmers and agricultural stakeholders
aiming to optimize tomato production under varying environmental conditions.
Hypothesis

The researchers formulated this hypothesis:

There is a significant difference between tomatoes grown in open spaces and

those grown in shaded areas in terms of yield (grams), circumference, and the total
number of fruits per plant.

Theoretical Framework

The Plant Growth and Development Theory proposed by Taiz and Zeiger (2010)
highlights the essential physiological processes such as photosynthesis, respiration,
and hormone regulation that influence plant growth. This theory serves as a
foundational framework for investigating how different shading levels impact
photosynthetic rates in tomato plants. Adequate light exposure is crucial for optimal
growth, and understanding how shading can either enhance or hinder these
physiological processes will be vital for assessing overall yield and fruit quality.
Microclimate Theory, articulated by Givnish (1988), explores the variations in localized
climates created by vegetation cover and topography. This theory can be applied to
analyze how shaded areas, through their unique microclimatic conditions, may create
an environment that is more favorable for tomato cultivation compared to open spaces.
By examining temperature, humidity, and light availability in shaded versus non-shaded
areas, this framework aids in understanding the nuanced environmental interactions
that influence tomato growth and yield.

Research on Stress Response Theory by Hossain et al. (2017) emphasizes the

mechanisms by which plants respond to environmental stressors, including temperature
extremes and light intensity. This theory is critical for assessing how shading mitigates
stress in tomato plants, potentially leading to improved fruit quality and yield.
Additionally, Resource Allocation Theory by Bloom, Chapin, and Mooney (1985)
provides insight into how shading affects the distribution of resources within the plant.
Understanding this dynamic can illuminate how shading influences not only the yield of
tomatoes but also their overall health and resilience.

Lastly, the Sustainable Agriculture Theory proposed by Altieri (1995) reinforces the
significance of agricultural practices that enhance environmental health while
maintaining economic viability. This framework can guide the exploration of shading as
a sustainable practice for tomato cultivation. Moreover, Climate Change Adaptation
Theory by Adger et al. (2005) frames the need for adaptive agricultural strategies to
maintain productivity amid changing climate conditions. By integrating these theories,
your research can comprehensively address the intricate relationships between
shading, environmental factors, and the yield performance of tomatoes, ultimately
contributing to sustainable agricultural practices in the face of climate variability.
 Conceptual Framework

Independent Variable Dependent Variable

Shading Condition Yield and Total

Open Space (full sun Tomato Yield (in grams)

exposure)
Circumference of
Shaded Area (partial or full Tomatoes
shade)
Total Number of Fruits per
Plant

Figure 1. The Conceptual Framework of the Study

Objectives of the Study:

The general objective of the study will is to determine the yield performance of Tomato
(Solanum lycopersicum) in open space and shaded area.

Specially the study aims to:

1. To determine the total number of fruits produced by tomato plants in both growing
conditions.

2. To assess the average circumference of tomatoes grown in open space and shaded
areas.

3. To compare the average weight of individual tomatoes harvested from open space
and shaded areas.

Purpose of the Study

The purpose of this study is to compare the yield performance of tomatoes

grown in open space versus those grown in shaded areas. This research aims to
determine which growing condition—full sun exposure or partial shade—results in better
yield in terms of quantity and quality. By analyzing the differences in growth rates, total
fruit production, and tomato size, this study seeks to provide valuable insights that can
help farmers and gardeners optimize their cultivation strategies to increase tomato yield.
Significance of the Study

The results of the study will be beneficial to the following:

Farmers. The findings will provide farmers with critical insights to optimize tomato
production. By understanding the effects of shading, farmers can improve crop
management strategies, enhance resource efficiency, and increase climate resilience.
Implementing effective shading practices can lead to better yields, lower water usage,
and healthier crops, ultimately promoting sustainable farming.

Consumers. The consumers will benefit from improved tomato quality and availability.
Enhanced agricultural practices will lead to fresher, tastier, and more nutritious
tomatoes. Furthermore, increased production can stabilize prices and improve food
security, allowing consumers access to locally sourced, high-quality produce.

Agriculture Students. This study will help agriculture students gain valuable insights
into how open and shaded areas impact the yield of tomatoes. By understanding these
effects, students can enhance their knowledge of agricultural practices and learn
strategies to optimize tomato yield in different environmental conditions.

Future Researchers. This study lays a foundation for future agricultural research. It
opens opportunities for exploring innovative shading techniques and crop management
practices. Researchers can build upon the findings to investigate further the impacts of
environmental factors on various crops, contributing to the advancement of sustainable
agricultural methods.

Scope and Delimitations

The main point of this study is to know the comparison of open space and shaded area
In Yield Performance of Tomato.In this study, we use a quantitative experimental
research design.

Definition of Terms

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum): A fruit-bearing plant belonging to the nightshade

family, commonly grown for its edible fruits, which are widely used in cooking and food
production. (Horton, D. R., & Wu, J. S. (2010). Tomato Production in the United States:
A Historical Perspective. Journal of Horticultural Science.)

Yield: The amount of produce harvested from a specific area of land, often measured in
grams per plant or per hectare. In this study, yield refers to the total weight of tomatoes
produced in both open space and shaded areas. (Wheeler, R. M., & Smith, J. A. (2012).
Yield Measurements in Agriculture: Concepts and Calculations. Agricultural Sciences.)

Open Space: An agricultural area without any physical barriers or shading structures
that expose crops directly to sunlight and environmental conditions. This setting
represents traditional farming practices. (Smith, J. K. (2011). Agricultural Landscapes:
The Impact of Open Space on Crop Production. Agricultural Geography Review.)

Shaded Area: An agricultural environment where crops are grown under shade-
providing structures or natural shade (e.g., trees). Shading can reduce solar radiation
and temperature, impacting plant growth and yield. (Núñez, D. F., & Obando, J. A.
(2014). Effects of Shading on Crop Yield: A Review. Journal of Agricultural Research.)
Shade Structures: Physical installations, such as shade nets or awnings, designed to
partially block sunlight from reaching crops, thereby creating a cooler microclimate that
can enhance plant health and productivity. (Aroca-Delgado, J., et al. (2018). Review of
Shade Structures for Crop Production: Effects on Microclimate and Yield. Journal of
Agricultural Engineering.)

Physiological Abnormalities: Deviations from normal physiological processes in

plants, often resulting from environmental stressors such as excessive heat or light.
These abnormalities can affect fruit development and overall yield. (Mäkelä, P., &
Peltonen-Sainio, P. (2015). Environmental Stress and Physiological Abnormalities in
Crops: Impacts on Yield. Crop Science.)

High Tunnels: Structures similar to greenhouses, typically made of plastic or fabric,

that provide controlled environmental conditions for crops, enhancing growth and yield
compared to open field conditions. (Altamimi, M. E. (2016). Evaluating Organic and
Conventional Management in High Tunnels. Kansas State University.)

Microclimate: A localized climate that differs from the surrounding area, often
influenced by factors such as shading, topography, and moisture levels. Microclimates
can significantly impact plant growth and productivity. (Gomez, R., et al. (2013).
Microclimate Effects on Plant Growth: A Comprehensive Review. Environmental
Research Letters.)
Radiation Interception: The process by which plants capture sunlight for
photosynthesis. Efficient radiation interception is crucial for optimizing growth and yield
in agricultural settings. (Marrou, H., et al. (2013). Productivity and Radiation Use
Efficiency of Crops. European Journal of Agronomy.)

Crop Management: The practices and strategies employed by farmers to cultivate

crops effectively, including planting, watering, fertilizing, and harvesting techniques
aimed at maximizing yield and quality. (Peters, J. R., & Wilson, C. (2012). Integrated
Crop Management: Principles and Practices. Crop Management Handbook.
 Chapter 2

Review of Related Literature

The yield performance of tomatoes in varying environmental conditions has

garnered significant attention in agricultural research, particularly in relation to the
effects of shading. Shading plays a critical role in mitigating excessive solar radiation
and temperature, ultimately enhancing fruit quality and crop yield. Understanding these
dynamics is essential for optimizing tomato cultivation, especially in the context of
climate change.

Yield of Open Space

The yield of tomatoes in open spaces is often influenced by environmental factors such
as temperature extremes and high solar radiation. Studies have shown that these
factors can cause physiological stress on the plants, leading to reduced fruit quality and
yield. Ilić et al. (2011) conducted a study in Serbia, highlighting the detrimental effects of
summer heat on tomato plants. The high levels of solar radiation and elevated
temperatures in open fields caused significant stress, affecting fruit development and
reducing overall yield. Similarly, in the United States, Altamimi (2016) compared the
yield of tomatoes in open fields versus controlled environments, finding that tomatoes
grown in open fields were more vulnerable to harsh weather conditions. This led to
lower yields compared to those cultivated in high tunnels, which offered better
temperature regulation and protection from excessive solar radiation.
The vulnerability of tomatoes in open space environments underscores the challenge of
maintaining consistent yield levels, particularly in regions with fluctuating weather
patterns or extreme temperatures. Without shading, the plants are exposed to higher
levels of radiation and heat, which can lead to physiological disorders and hinder fruit
development. Therefore, open spaces, while common, may not always provide the ideal
conditions for maximizing tomato yield.

Yield of Shaded Area

In contrast, shaded environments have been shown to create more stable conditions
that promote higher tomato yields. Ilić et al. (2011) found that the use of shading in open
fields or under plastic structures helped reduce excessive solar radiation and air
temperature, thereby improving fruit quality and yield. Shaded areas mitigate the stress
caused by high temperatures, allowing plants to thrive and produce higher-quality fruits.
The study indicated that shaded environments not only protected tomatoes from
extreme heat but also enhanced their overall growth and productivity.

Similarly, Altamimi (2016) reported that tomatoes grown in high tunnels—structures that
provide controlled environments with shading—experienced significantly higher yields
compared to those grown in open fields. The controlled conditions in high tunnels
reduced environmental stressors like heat and radiation, enabling better nutrient uptake
and healthier plants. This demonstrated that shaded areas, such as high tunnels or
shade structures, could significantly enhance tomato yield by providing an environment
where temperature and radiation are managed effectively.

Moreover, research by Aroca-Delgado et al. (2018) reviewed various shading systems

in greenhouses, emphasizing their role in maintaining optimal temperature and humidity
levels. Shading systems were found to reduce heat stress, which is particularly
important for tomatoes, as excessive heat can hinder their growth and fruit
development. By reducing the risk of temperature extremes, shaded areas promote
healthier plants and higher yields. Cossu et al. (2018) further corroborated these
findings, noting that shading systems in greenhouses, such as roof-mounted shades,
could effectively block excessive sunlight while allowing enough light to penetrate for
photosynthesis, ultimately leading to improved fruit quality and higher tomato yields.

Comparison and Implications

The comparison between open space and shaded areas reveals a clear advantage for
shaded environments in terms of tomato yield and fruit quality. In both Ilić et al. (2011)
and Altamimi (2016), shaded areas, whether in the form of plastic structures or high
tunnels, consistently produced higher tomato yields than open fields. These findings
suggest that shading not only mitigates the negative effects of high temperatures and
solar radiation but also provides an environment where plants can more effectively
utilize available resources for growth and development.

However, as highlighted by Marrou et al. (2013) and Aroca-Delgado et al. (2018),

shading must be carefully managed to ensure that it does not obstruct too much
sunlight, which is essential for photosynthesis. Excessive shading can reduce leaf area
and overall plant biomass, leading to lower productivity. This suggests that while
shading is beneficial, the degree of shading should be optimized to balance temperature
regulation with light exposure. Furthermore, the design of shading systems, as
discussed by Cossu et al. (2018), plays a crucial role in determining how effectively
sunlight is distributed across plants.

In conclusion, the body of literature consistently supports the idea that shaded
environments, such as high tunnels or controlled greenhouse conditions, enhance
tomato yield by reducing temperature extremes and providing optimal conditions for
growth. The challenge lies in determining the optimal level of shading that balances
heat protection with adequate sunlight for photosynthesis. Future research should
continue to explore innovative shading techniques and their implications for maximizing
tomato production in varying environmental conditions.
 CHAPTER 3

METHODOLOGY

This research uses an experimental design to assess the impact of varying shading
levels on tomato plant growth and yield in a controlled agricultural environment. The
study will apply several shading treatments to the plants, aiming to determine how
different shading levels influence yield and growth parameters. Tomato plants will be
randomly assigned to each treatment group to ensure a representative sample. Data
will be collected through regular observations and measurements of yield, including the
number and weight of fruits produced under each shading condition. Regression
analysis will be used to assess the relationship between shading levels and plant
performance, identifying significant differences in yield between the treatments.

Research Design

This study will employ a quantitative experimental research design to compare the yield
performance of tomato plants grown in open space versus a shaded area. The
experiment will be conducted in a controlled agricultural environment, with tomato plants
randomly assigned to two groups: one group will be placed in open space with full
sunlight exposure, and the other group will be placed in a shaded area with controlled
shading.

Data will be collected on several yield-related variables, including the number of fruits,
fruit circumference, and overall yield (fruit weight) at regular intervals throughout the
growing season. These measurements will allow for a quantitative assessment of how
shading affects tomato yield performance. ANOVA and Regression analysis will be
used to examine the relationship between shading levels and the yield-related variables,
determining how shading influences tomato growth and productivity.

Research Locale

The experimental study was conducted in Purok 18, Tagnanan, Mabini, Davao de Oro.
The researchers choose this place to conduct an experimental study because the land
is big enough to plant tomatoes.

CULTURAL PRACTICES AND MANAGEMENT

Preparation of Soil Media

1. Collect all ingredients for the soil media

2. After collecting, expose the cow manure to the sun
3. After exposing to the sun
4. Pulverize the soil and cow manure, then mix it
5. Sterilize it by exposing the mixture in the sun
6. Ready to apply

Sowing of Seeds
To start tomato seeds, it is best to choose a warm and bright location. Light and warmth
are crucial for the healthy growth of tomato seedlings.

Transplanting of Seedling in the Pot

The tomato seeds will be transferred to a pot. The pot is designed to support the
structure of the tomato plant and enhance its growth

Data Gathered

The data was collected to assess the effect of shading on the yield, number of fruits,
and circumference of tomatoes. The experimental design used was a Complete
Randomized Design (CRD). The experiment was conducted by placing the tomato
plants in two different environments: an open space and a shaded area.

T1: Open space (320g of soil media per plant)

T2: Shaded area (320g of soil media per plant)

Statistical Analysis

The data were analyzed using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) to determine the
significant differences between the open space and shaded area conditions.
Mean (average) – the mean is the most common measure of central tendency,
representing the average value of a group of numbers. In this study, it is used to
compare the mean yield performance of tomato plants between the open space and
shaded area. Abdel-Mawgoud et al. (1996)

ANOVA (Analysis of Variance) – is a statistical tool to test the homogeneity of different

groups based on their differences.

ANOVA is a statistical method used to analyze the variance in a set of data by dividing it
into different groups based on the sources of variation. In this study, ANOVA is applied
to determine the differences in yield performance of tomato plants grown in open space
and shaded areas. Aroca-Delgado et al. (2023).

Research Instrument

The material used in this study areas the following:

Materials

Tomato Seeds

Soil

Shovel

Sacks
 Cow manure

Water Pail

google.com/maps/place/Tagnanan+(Mampising),+Mabini,+Davao+de+Oro

Figure 2: Map of Davao Region highlighting, Prk 18,Tagnanan,Mampising,

Mabini,Davao de oro.
POPULATION AND SAMPLE

In this study, the researcher used a total of 10 tomato plants for transplanting. The study
compares two treatments: T1 (Open Space) and T2 (Shaded Area), with 5 plants in
each group. The comparison was made using a Complete Randomized Design (CRD),
ensuring random allocation of plants to each treatment group to minimize bias and
improve the reliability of the results.