Effect of some treatments of date-palm waste as a culture media on some tomato fruit properties

Use of suitable growing media or substrates is essential for production of horticultural crops. The experiment was conducted as factorial in a completely randomized block design with 9 treatments and 4 replications. Treatments included three particle sizes (S1= <0.5, S2=0.5-1 and S3=1-2 cm) and three composting times (C1=0, C2=3 and C3=6 months) of date palm waste. During tomato growth Papadopolus formula with fertigation method was used for nutrient solution. Different sizes and composting times of date palm waste had significant effect on N, P, K, number and yield of fruit (p< 0.05). Comparison of different sizes showed highest amounts of N, P, K, number and yield were related to particle size of 0.5-1 cm. Comparison of different composting times illustrated maximum amounts of N, P, K, number and yield were observed in composting time of 6 months. The overall result of this study indicated culture media quality is one of the most important influences on fruit yield and quality. A good culture media has both the chemical and physical properties that promote healthy and yield of fruit.