Enhancing Tomato Yields Through On-Farm Trials

Introduction to On-Farm Trials

On-farm trials present an invaluable opportunity for farmers to assess the efficacy of various agricultural practices and amendments in real-world settings. In August 2025, Farmer Kay initiated an experimental trial with technical support from the Organic Farming Research Foundation’s (OFRF) Farmer-Led Trials Program.

Trial Setup and Methodology

Plot map from Passion Garden’s FLT Program trial

To ensure consistent conditions across the trial, Kay constructed eight raised beds, each measuring 4 feet by 8 feet, utilizing a uniform soil mixture and organic compost. In September, she transplanted four tomato plants into each bed. Notably, four of the raised beds received ½ cup of Mesquite Bean Meal (MBM) as a pre-transplant amendment.

Throughout the growing season, the plants were treated uniformly, with the same irrigation schedule, staking method, and pest management practices implemented across all beds.

Monitoring and Data Collection

By mid-October, Kay began meticulously tracking her yields, focusing on both total weight and marketable weight—the weight of tomatoes meeting commercial standards. Alongside yield data, observations regarding plant health, pest pressures, and any plant losses were recorded to enhance the findings of her trial.

Trial Results: Significant Yield Increases

Upon analyzing the collected data, Kay observed a marked increase in yield for the plants treated with MBM compared to the control group. The results indicated not only higher average yields per plant but also improved overall productivity.

Anecdotal evidence further suggested enhanced soil health; Kay reported improved water drainage and noted increased activity from soil organisms, such as worms. She speculated that the natural sugars contained in the MBM could be attracting beneficial soil invertebrates, contributing to healthier soil ecosystems.

Yield results from Passion Garden’s FLT Program trial, contrasting the control group (blue) versus the group treated with Mesquite Bean Meal (red).

Conclusion and Future Plans

Motivated by the successful outcomes of the trial, Kay plans to adopt MBM as a standard pre-transplant amendment across her farm. Additionally, she expresses excitement about the multifaceted uses of Mesquite Beans, envisioning them as a coffee alternative, gluten-free flour for baking, and even as a unique jelly.

Stay tuned for the final report detailing Kay’s trial, set to release later this year, as she continues to champion innovative agricultural practices in her community.