The Effect of Compost Tea on Some Growth and Yield Parameters and Soil Chemical Properties of Greenhouse Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.)

Abstract

The research was conducted within a greenhouse setting to explore the impact of various compost tea application rates on the growth of ‘Hazera 395’ tomatoes. Additionally, the study aimed to compare the efficacy of soil-applied compost tea versus foliar application methods, all conducted under greenhouse conditions. Utilizing a split-plot design with three replications, soil and foliar applications were designated as main plots, while six compost tea concentration treatments (v/v) were allocated to sub-main plots. These concentrations included: zero treatment (control), as well as extracts of 1:1, 1:25, 1:50, 1:75, and 1:100 compost to water ratios. Notably, soil-applied compost tea significantly enhanced nitrogen (N) and potassium (K) availability compared to foliar application. Moreover, the 1:25 compost tea extract, whether applied to soil or foliage, notably improved vegetative growth parameters such as stem internode count, plant height, and leaf count per plant. Both soil and foliar application of compost tea resulted in significant increases in yield and average fruit weight. In summary, this research advances scientific knowledge by elucidating the effects of compost tea application rates and methods on tomato growth under controlled greenhouse conditions, offering valuable insights for agricultural practices aimed at improving crop productivity and sustainability.