Effect of zeolite as a growing medium in soilless culture on tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) fruits yield and quality

Zeolites have been recently developed as a substance in soilless cultures to grow plants. The main objective of this work was to compare effect of zeolite with other substances on fruit yield and quality of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum cv. gavrish). The results showed that fruits yield, antioxidant capacity, total phenolic compounds, sugar and firmness of fruits significantly affected by the growing media but, acidity and vitamin C did not changed by that. The highest yield and firmness value was found in zeolite and tea waste (1:3) medium, but the lowest that found with zeolite and tea waste (2:1). But the maximum antioxidant capacity, total phenolic compounds, sugar and acidity was found when tea waste used alone as a substance. Overall, incorporation proper amount of zeolite with other substances especially organic matter (e.g. Tea waste) can be a promising growing medium to improving plant growth and some fruit characteristics.

Keywords:

tomato , zeolite , tea waste , fruit yield and quality