Abstract

Increasing public concern about negative environmental effects of agricultural practices like conventional chemical fertilization has promoted the evaluation of alternatives like the use of organic nutrient solutions. This study evaluated the effect on fruit yield and commercial and nutraceutical qualities of fresh tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) fruits grown under greenhouse conditions fertilized with nutrient solutions prepared from organic materials. Treatments were: a) Inorganic nutritive solution (Steiner); b) Compost tea; c) Vermicompost tea; and d) Vermicompost leachate. Highest fruit yield derived from fertilization with inorganic solution. However, highest antioxidant capacity, soluble solids content and phenolic content were obtained with organic nutrient solutions. Fresh tomatoes obtained with vermicompost leachate had the best nutraceutical quality, higher phenolic content and higher antioxidant capacity, than the inorganically fertilized fruits. Vermicompost leachate is a feasible fertilization alternative for tomato production under greenhouse conditions.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.