Summary
This study investigated physiological responses of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum cv. Hausu-Momotaro) plants grown in a nutrient solution system with granular rockwool when subjected to water stress (no irrigation) compared to control conditions. Measurements of water potential, transpiration, photosynthetic rate, stem diameter and leaf temperature were recorded in a glasshouse setting. The results demonstrated that water stress significantly reduced leaf water potential, suppressed transpiration, increased leaf temperature (by up to 3.6°C), and increased stem diameter reduction (0.7 mm versus 0.1 mm in control), with potential to estimate leaf water potential from stem diameter or accumulated solar radiation.
Regional applicability
The findings are relevant to protected horticulture and hydroponic tomato production systems used in temperate climates including the United Kingdom. However, the study was conducted in Japan and the specific cultivar and glasshouse conditions may differ from typical UK production; transferability would benefit from validation in UK growing environments and with commercial cultivars grown under UK conditions.
Key measures
Leaf water potential (upper and lower leaves), transpiration rate, photosynthetic rate, stem diameter change, leaf temperature, accumulated solar radiation
Outcomes reported
The study measured physiological parameters (water potential, transpiration rate, photosynthetic rate, stem diameter, leaf temperature) of tomato plants grown in nutrient solution with granular rockwool under controlled water stress conditions. Relationships between leaf water potential and other measurable factors were analysed to assess predictability of plant water status.
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