The effect of growing medium and the foliar use of bio-stimulant fertilizer on the growth characteristics and yield of tomato (Lycopersicum esculentum var. Grande)

In order to investigate the effect of the biostimulant fertilizer (Companion and Bio-nutrient) and growing medium [soil (control), 75% soil + 25% coco peat and 50% soil + 50% coco peat] on the growth and some physiological traits of Rio Grande tomato, a factorial experiment based on a completely randomized design with three replications was conducted in the research greenhouse of Shahid Madani University of Azarbaijan. The results showed that plant dry weight, yield, fruit volume, soluble solids content, chlorophyll, carotenoids, anthocyanins and titratable acidity were influenced by the interaction effects of experimental treatments. The number of flowers per cluster, number of flower clusters, anthocyanin content and total phenolic content were influenced by the independent effects of biological stimulants. Based on the results, the highest plant dry weight, yield and chlorophyll content were obtained in bio-nutreint fertilizer × 50% coco peat. An increase in fruit volume, soluble solids content and titratable acidity was obtained in 25 and 50% coco peat with both bio-fertilizer applications. Both biofertilizers increased the phenolic and vitamin C content in fruits. The overall results showed that the biostimulant and coco peat medium improved the growth and physiological traits of the plant in this study. The results are an important step in reducing the use of chemical fertilizers in tomato production and replacing them with environmentally friendly compounds.