Effect of a Fortified Biostimulant Extract on Tomato Plant Productivity, Physiology, and Growing Media Properties

Abstract

The pursuit of sustainable and productive agriculture demands the exploration of innovative approaches to improve plant productivity and soil health. The utilization of natural agricultural biostimulants, such as extracts from seaweed, fish, and humus, has gained prominence as an ecological strategy to achieve this goal. In this study we investigated the effectiveness of a fortified biostimulant extract (FBE), composed of extracts from seaweed, fish, and humus, on tomato plant physiology, productivity, and growing media properties, and estimated carbon emissions associated with tomato production. The FBE was applied to the growing media of tomato plants produced in a greenhouse, in experiments over two growing seasons. The productivity assessments demonstrated that the application of FBE significantly increased tomato fruit yield by 20% and relative marketable fruit yield by 27%, and reduced estimated greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with production by 29%. FBE treatment improved plant shoot and root biomass, accelerated flower and fruit set initiation, and increased chlorophyll content in leaves, resulting in enhanced plant physiology and advanced development. FBE treatment positively influenced the availability of crucial nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and iron in the growing media. FBE promoted the growth of total active microbes in the growing media, particularly the fungal population, which plays an important role in nutrient cycling and health. These findings highlight the beneficial effects of the FBE due to enhanced plant productivity and growth, improved fertility, the promotion of beneficial plant and growing media interactions, and the reduction in estimated GHG emissions.

Effects of Nutrient Solution Application Rates on Yield, Quality, and Water–Fertilizer Use Efficiency on Greenhouse Tomatoes Using Grown-in Coir

“…Among them, high-nutrient-solution application amounts (the matrix water-holding capacity is 80%) were significantly higher than those in other treatments (the matrix water-holding capacity is 60%, and the matrix water-holding capacity is 70%) ( Figure 1 ), which is consistent with the research of Yang et al [ 19 ]. This indicates that a sufficient nutrient supply can help plants maintain good growth statuses, better assist in the synthesis and transport of organic matter, and promote the vigorous growth of plants [ 20 ].…”

Effect of Biostimulant, Manure Stabilizer, and Manure on Soil Physical Properties and Vegetation Status

“…While farmyard manure has a positive effect on soil fertility and consequently on plant yields, synthetic fertilizers provide large amounts of nutrients to the soil-and hence increase yields-but reduce the carbon content of the soil and do not improve soil health [4]. In terms of sustainability, it is appropriate to integrate plant-based products-such as algae or microorganism-based products-into agricultural practice [5,6]. Some companies may add value to products, e.g., stranded seaweed on beaches, thus facilitating the restoration of ecosystems.…”

Yield and Fruit Characteristics of Tomato Crops Grown with Mineral Macronutrients: Impact of Organo-Mineral Fertilizers through Foliar or Soil Applications

“…In recent time they have become an increasingly popular tool as a source of plant nutrition, either as an alternative to synthetic fertilizers or in conjunction with them. Their effects are still largely unknown today, but they typically have a positive effect on plants [ 7 , 8 , 9 ]. Their action on plants is exerted through several mechanisms, including hormone-like activity production, enhancement of photosynthesis, and the promotion of plant–soil microorganism activity [ 10 , 11 ].…”