ECONOMIC EFFICIENCY OF CULTIVATION OF INDETERMINANT HYBRIDS OF CHERRY TOMATOES IN WINTER GREENHOUSES OF THE STEPPE AREA OF UKRAINE

Abstract

The article examines the economic efficiency of growing indeterminate hybrids of cherry tomatoes in winter greenhouses in the modern greenhouse complex of Dniprovskyi LLC. Experimental studies were conducted over three years (2021–2023). The research was c arried out using indeterminate tomato hybrids: Juanita F1 (control), DRC-564 F1, DRC-2050 F1, DRC-2055 F1. The study determines the economic efficiency of growing, phenological observations, the dynamics of yield formation, and the marketability of hybrid fruits. Additionally, the effect of the hybrid on the main biochemical parameters of the fruits is presented, as well as the adaptation of hybrids to growing conditions in winter greenhouses. The studies have shown a yield increase of 1.4 kg/m² to 1.9 kg/m², or a yield increase of 6.6% to 9.0%, on DRC-564 F1, DRC-2050 F1, and DRC-2055 F1 compared to the control, Juanita F1. By introducing these new cherry hybrids into crop rotation, it is possible to achieve a net profit increase per hectare of 3.3 million hryvnias for DRC-564, 2.5 million hryvnias for DRC- 2055, and 2.3 million hryvnias for DRC-2050. The profitability of growing cherry tomatoes in winter greenhouses can reach 38.4% to 44.5%. The obtained results provide valuable information for greenhouse plant growers regarding the selection of the most productive, economically beneficial, and adapted tomato hybrids for growing in winter greenhouses. This contributes to increased yield and economic efficiency.