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Metropolitan Journal of Academic Multidisciplinary Research

The Effect Of Soil Moisture Levels On Growth And Yield Of Tomatoes: A Case Study Of Nakoma SubCounty, Bugiri District

Authors: Emejeit Isaac1 , Elwelu Felex2

Journal: Metropolitan Journal of Academic Multidisciplinary Research (MJAMR)

Volume/Issue: Volume 5 - Issue 5

Published: 05 Jun 2026


Abstract

This study examined the effects of varying soil moisture levels on the growth and yield of tomatoes in Nakoma SubCounty, Bugiri District, Uganda. Tomato production in Uganda is increasingly threatened by erratic rainfall patterns and inadequate irrigation practices, making soil moisture management a critical factor in ensuring food security and farmer livelihoods. A field experiment was conducted over two growing seasons (March–June and August–November 2023) using a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with four moisture treatments (40%, 60%, 80%, and 100% Field Capacity) replicated three times. Findings revealed that 80% field capacity moisture levels produced optimal tomato growth and yield, with a mean yield of 28.4 tonnes per hectare. Excessive moisture (100% FC) reduced yield due to root hypoxia and disease incidence, while deficit moisture (40% FC) severely stunted plant growth. The study recommends implementation of drip irrigation systems in Bugiri District to achieve optimal soil moisture management.
Keywords

Soil Moisture, Tomato Growth, Field Capacity, Drip Irrigation, Bugiri District, Uganda, Food Security

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