The effects of water levels and potassium fertirrigation on plant growth, production and quality of the fruits of Bônus F1 hibrid tomatoes (Lycopersicom esculentum Mill.) were evaluated in protected environment, in the Horticulture Sector of the Universidade Federal de Lavras, Minas Gerais State, Brazil, with the plants growing on a Dystroferric Red Latosol. Drip irrigation was used at levels of 40, 60, 80 and 100% Kc.Ev, with the dosages 300, 500, 700 and 900 kg.ha-1 of K2O (potassium nitrate and potassium chloride) being evaluated. Fertirrigations started 10 days after the transplanting and were done three times a week, during the cycle of the crop. The applied water levels influenced the plants growth at 30, 60 and 90 days, with no effect of potassium fertilization and its interaction with the levels of irrigation on plant growth or on the fruits production being observed. The number of tradable fruits Extra AAA, Extra AA and Extra A increased at 0.462; 0.681 and 1.038unities.plant-1 for each 20% of increase on the level of irrigation. Brix and soluble pectine increased with the irrigation levels until 100% Kc.Ev wheres Brix, acidity and pH increased with the potassium levels until 700 kg.ha-1 of K2O.
tomato; Lycopersicon esculentum; fertirrigation; potassium; quality of fruit
