Hood, C.E.
Webb, B.K.
Alper, Y.
Sims Jr., E.T.
Jobes, R.A.

The objective of the study described was to develop and test a tomato harvesting system that would meet the needs of producers in the Southeast. Specific goals were: to develop a satisfactory vine cutting mechanism to precut plants before harvest to allow wilting, to develop a tractor-pulled harvester with a shaker and conveyor system and to test the system on a commercial operation including postharvest studies, economic analysis, and shipment of packed product for sale on a distant market.