Microbial biofertilizers and algae-based biostimulant affect fruit yield characteristics of organic processing tomato

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Plant Science
• Microbiology

Background:

• Sustainable agriculture relies on microbial biofertilizers and algae-based biostimulants.
• Field experiments were conducted over two growing seasons in an organic farm in Ferrara, Italy.
• The study evaluated two plant growth-promoting microorganisms (PGPMs) and two algae-based biostimulant rates on tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.).

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of PGPMs and algae-based biostimulants in enhancing tomato growth and yield.
• To determine the optimal application rates for biostimulants in conjunction with PGPMs.
• To assess the impact of these treatments on key plant physiological parameters and fruit quality.

Main Methods:

• A split-plot experimental design with three replications was used.
• PGPMs were applied at transplanting; biostimulants were applied 15 and 30 days post-transplanting.
• Plant characteristics (biomass, height, leaf number), physiological indices (SPAD, NDVI, LAI, PPFD), and tomato yield were monitored and determined.

Main Results:

• PGPM_2 significantly increased shoot and root biomass, plant height, and leaf number compared to PGPM_1 and no inoculation.
• Both PGPMs improved SPAD, NDVI, PPFD, and LAI values.
• The 1.0% algae-based biostimulant rate (Biost_1.0%) resulted in the highest growth parameters, with PGPM_2-Biost_1.0% achieving the maximum yield (67.2 t ha⁻¹).

Conclusions:

• Microbial biofertilizers and algae-based biostimulants are effective components of environment-friendly organic farming practices.
• The combined application of specific PGPMs and algae-based biostimulants can optimize tomato production.
• These findings support the integration of biological inputs for sustainable crop management and yield enhancement.