Cost-Benefit Analysis of Grafting and Anaerobic Soil Disinfestation Strategies for Tomato Cultivation in South Carolina

This study examined the economic viability of integrating anaerobic soil disinfestation (ASD) and vegetable grafting for tomato ( Solanum lycopersicum ) production in South Carolina after the phase-out of methyl bromide. A split-plot randomized complete block design was used to test different anaerobic soil disinfestation (ASD) carbon sources and tomato rootstocks. Cost and yield data were analyzed using a partial budget and sensitivity analysis to assess the profitability of various treatment combinations. The results showed that unsealed ASD treatments, particularly those using molasses plus chicken manure (M+CM) combined with ‘Maxifort’ rootstock, produced the highest net returns. In contrast, sealed treatments often led to economic losses, likely because of delayed transplanting and reduced soil oxygenation. The sensitivity analysis highlighted the substantial influence of market price fluctuations and grafted transplant costs on overall profitability. While ASD and grafting incur higher upfront costs, they can be economically beneficial when managed under optimal conditions. These findings offer region-specific economic insights for growers evaluating sustainable alternatives to chemical fumigation and support future research of cost-effective, environmentally sound soil management practices.