Summary
This field trial examined whether encapsulated micronutrients and bioactive agents could enhance synthesis of secondary metabolites in commercially important tomato cultivars across different growing systems. Application of alginate microspheres containing calcium, copper, or Trichoderma viride resulted in substantial increases in lycopene, polyphenols, and antioxidant activity across both hydroponic and soil cultivation methods, suggesting potential for producing nutrient-enriched tomatoes through targeted agronomic intervention.
Regional applicability
The study was conducted in Croatia with greenhouse-based horticulture; findings are directly relevant to United Kingdom glasshouse tomato production systems and may inform UK horticulture practices seeking to enhance crop nutrient density. Transferability to outdoor UK field conditions would require additional investigation, as the controlled greenhouse environment may not fully replicate variable UK climate and soil conditions.
Key measures
Lycopene content (percentage increase), total polyphenols content (percentage increase), antioxidant activity (percentage increase), cultivar variety, cultivation type (hydroponic vs soil)
Outcomes reported
The study measured lycopene content, total polyphenol concentration, and antioxidant activity in tomato fruits from two cultivars grown in hydroponic and soil systems following treatment with encapsulated chemical (calcium or copper ions) or biological (Trichoderma viride) agents.
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