Summary
This study developed and tested an irrigation control system for hydroponic tomato cultivation that uses relative stem diameter as a proxy for plant water stress. When a lower set-point was applied, restricted irrigation increased fruit quality (Brix and acid content) despite reducing vegetative growth and yield, with irrigation volume closely tracked to evapotranspiration under moderate water stress conditions.
Regional applicability
The findings are applicable to UK glasshouse and protected horticulture sectors using hydroponic systems, which represent a growing proportion of commercial tomato production. The technology could inform irrigation management practices for UK growers seeking to optimise fruit quality in controlled environments, though validation in UK climate and growing conditions would strengthen adoption.
Key measures
Relative stem diameter (RSD), irrigation volume, plant height, leaf area, fruit number and weight, Brix content, acid content, evapotranspiration rate
Outcomes reported
The study evaluated an irrigation control system based on relative stem diameter (RSD) as a water stress index in hydroponic tomato cultivation. Growth, yield, and fruit quality parameters were compared between high and low set-point irrigation treatments.
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