Summary
This 1995 field trial examined the effect of potassium-to-calcium (K/Ca) ratio in hydroponic nutrient solutions on the development of two physiological disorders in tomato fruit cultivated in rockwool. The work suggests that nutrient ratio imbalances, particularly excess potassium relative to calcium, may predispose tomato to blossom-end rot and gold specks, disorders of potential agronomic and commercial importance in protected horticulture. The findings contribute to understanding cation interactions in soilless growing systems.
Regional applicability
This research is directly applicable to United Kingdom protected horticulture and greenhouse tomato production systems, where rockwool cultivation is widely used. The nutrient management principles identified would inform formulation of hydroponic solutions for UK growers, though local water chemistry and cultivar selection may require adaptation.
Key measures
Incidence of blossom-end rot, incidence of gold specks, K/Ca ratio in nutrient solution
Outcomes reported
The study investigated how varying potassium-to-calcium ratios in hydroponic nutrient solutions influence the incidence of blossom-end rot and gold specks (a physiological disorder) in tomato fruit grown in rockwool substrate.
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