Question: Sun scald of tomato is due to—
Options:
High temperature
Low temperature
Low oxygen level
Low light intensity
Sun scald is a physiological disorder in tomatoes (and other plants) caused by excessive heat and intense sunlight. The high temperatures can damage the fruit's skin, leading to bleached or yellowed areas that may become sunken and leathery.
📌Other Options Explanations:
• Common Physiological Disorders in Tomatoes:
-Blossom-End Rot (BER): This is characterized by a dark, leathery spot at the blossom end of the fruit. It's caused by a calcium deficiency within the fruit, often exacerbated by inconsistent watering, high humidity, or excessive nitrogen fertilization.
-Fruit Cracking: This occurs when the skin of the fruit splits, usually due to boron and fluctuations in moisture levels or rapid growth. It can lead to secondary infections and reduce fruit quality.
-Sunscald: This appears as white or yellow patches on the fruit exposed to intense sunlight. It's caused by high temperatures and can be exacerbated by insufficient foliage cover.
-Blotchy Ripening: This disorder results in uneven ripening with yellow or green patches on ripe fruit. It's associated with potassium deficiency, high temperatures, or low light intensity.
-Catfacing: This causes scarring and deformities at the blossom end of the fruit. It's often linked to cold temperatures or pollination issues during flowering.
-Puffiness: This results in hollow, lightweight fruits with a papery texture. It's commonly caused by poor pollination, low light levels, or nutrient deficiencies.