Summary
This greenhouse trial investigated whether OMRI-certified organic fertilisers based on animal-derived residues could replace conventional hydroponic nutrient solutions for soilless grape tomato production. Organic treatments (using combinations of animal-based, marine-derived, and natural mineral inputs) matched conventional control yields (3.04–3.35 kg m⁻²) and fruit quality whilst significantly increasing polyphenol content and the diversity of phenolic compounds (including 3-caffeoylquinic acid, salvianolic acid, and medioresinol). The findings suggest organic liquid and solid animal-based fertilisers are a viable alternative for protected horticulture under these controlled conditions.
Regional applicability
This study was conducted in Mexico under greenhouse conditions with soilless systems, which differ markedly from predominant United Kingdom outdoor and field-grown tomato production. However, the findings may have relevance to UK protected horticulture and organic greenhouse growers seeking alternatives to permitted inputs, though UK-specific trials would be needed to validate performance under local climate and growing conditions.
Key measures
Yield (kg m⁻²), fresh weight, plant height, fruit quality parameters, total hydrolysable polyphenols, condensed polyphenols, individual phenolic compound identification and quantification (HPLC analysis)
Outcomes reported
The study measured plant growth, yield, fruit quality, and polyphenol content in soilless-grown grape tomatoes under three organic nutrient solution treatments versus conventional Steiner solution control. Specific phenolic compounds were identified and quantified in fruit.
Topic tags
Dig deeper with Pulse AI.
Ask about this record, its theme or its relevance to UK farming and policy. Pulse AI uses selected catalogue evidence and cites the sources it draws on.