Rooting of Tomato Cuttings in Nutrient Solution or Substrate: An Alternative for High-Density Production Systems

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the quality of tomato seedlings from cuttings rooted in nutrient solution and in solid substrates (peat moss, red volcanic rock, and a mixture of bouth substrates), and their subsequent effect on growth and yield.

Design/methodology/approach: The cuttings were collected from mother plants aged 80 days. Once each treatment was established, the rooting process took place inside a structure conditioned with a temperature between 15 and 20°C and a relative humidity of 70%. Irrigation was applied automatically every hour for two minutes using a nutrient solution at 50% concentration. The experimental design was randomized complete blocks with four replications. Growth variables were recorded 20 days after the start of rooting until the beginning of the harvest. Subsequently, performance variables and their components were evaluated.

Results: All seedlings showed quality at transplanting, but those from cuttings rooted in nutrient solution had significantly larger stem diameter (7.3 mm), leaf area (354.5 cm²), and dry weight (3.1 g). However, in the adult plant stage, no differences in growth or yield were observed.

Limitations on study/implications: It is necessary to carry out an economic feasibility study of each of the substrates used.

Findings/conclusions: For seedling production, the use of a nutrient solution or a mixture of peat moss and tezontle in a 1:1 ratio represents a more viable option in terms of economics and accessibility.