Optimal yields have been obtained by establishing and maintaining a specified ionic root environment. An Intensity and Balance Concept has been developed, utilizing intensity and balance soil testing procedures. Total salts and the proportionate concentration of cations and anions in a soil saturation extract are used to evaluate the ionic environment. That combination of ionic concentrations which gives the best yield is used as the standard forming the basis for fertilizer recommendations. Consistently high yields of fresh market tomatoes from 96,000 to 117,000 kg/ha were produced during 9 seasons using the procedures described where ionic environments were established and maintained. During these same seasons, the average Florida production for fresh market tomatoes was considerably less, ranging from 10,000 to 50,000 kg/ha.