Summary of Protein hydrolysate-based biostimulant improves yield and fruit quality of greenhouse fresh tomato
Biostimulants Enhance Greenhouse Tomato: Improving Yield and Quality
The use of biostimulants to enhance greenhouse tomato production has emerged as one of the most innovative strategies in sustainable horticulture. These natural plant-derived substances are designed to improve nutrient uptake, stress tolerance, and overall crop performance. Although research on their effects remains limited, recent studies demonstrate significant potential for improving both yield and fruit quality in greenhouse-grown tomatoes.
How Biostimulants Enhance Greenhouse Tomato Yield
Greenhouse experiments have shown that foliar application of protein hydrolysate-based biostimulants can significantly increase marketable yield. In one study, treated tomato plants exhibited a 15.4% increase in marketable yield and a 19.8% increase in mean fruit weight compared to untreated controls. Interestingly, the total number of fruits remained largely unaffected, indicating that biostimulants primarily improve fruit size and quality rather than fruit set.
Boosting Tomato Fruit Quality with Biostimulants
Beyond yield, biostimulants enhance greenhouse tomato quality traits. Foliar applications led to a remarkable rise in total soluble solids (+10.2%), total ascorbic acid (+22.9%), and other nutritional parameters (+37.5%), contributing to healthier, more flavorful fruits. These improvements highlight the dual benefit of biostimulants: increased productivity and superior fruit nutritional quality.
Practical Implications for Growers
For growers, extension specialists, and researchers, understanding the role of biostimulants in greenhouse tomato production is essential. Regular application of protein hydrolysate-based biostimulants at recommended concentrations can optimize crop performance, improve fruit quality, and support sustainable horticultural practices. Moreover, these treatments can complement conventional fertilization, helping reduce environmental impact while maintaining high productivity.
In conclusion, biostimulants enhance greenhouse tomato yield and fruit quality, offering a valuable tool for sustainable tomato cultivation. Future research should explore different biostimulant formulations and application schedules to maximize benefits across various greenhouse conditions.
Publication: Acta Horticulturae
