Forecasting Plant Development Time in the Tomato Production Industry: A Suggested Simulation Model

An accurate forecast of length of time from planting of seeds until first fruit is ready for marketing is of considerable economic significance to commercıal tomato producers. This paper describes a preliminary study made to investigate the feasibility of using a simulation method to provide a useful forecasting model. The study indicates that such an approach is feasible; even by using the rudimentary experimental information available the real situation can be adequately modelled. With the collectıon of additional empirical information the evidence of this work suggests that a forecasting model useful to this industry can be constructed on the lines of the preliminary model described.