Effects of Defoliation on the Occurrence of Internal Browning in Tomatoes Grown in Soilless Cultures

Internal browning is a physiological disorder affecting tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum L.), and presents major problem to Japanese producers. characterized by the discoloration (browning) of inside fruits while external surface appears normal; consequently, affected reach consumers without detection. may be caused Ca deficiency suppressed performing defoliation. We investigated effect defoliation on occurrence internal in Momotaro York planted hydroponically glass greenhouse controlled environment chamber. The was significantly lower defoliated plants (50% leaf area removed) than control (no defoliation). Moreover, content water fraction young obtained from higher that plants. Overall, this study demonstrates increases reduces tomato