Summary
This field trial compared four rootstock varieties grafted onto 'Ruifen 882' tomato scion in a coconut coir greenhouse system, evaluating impacts on seedling growth, physiological performance and fruit quality. The R/GUO graft combination achieved near-98% survival rate and demonstrated superior chlorophyll content, mineral nutrient uptake, fruit yield and overall quality metrics compared to non-grafted and alternative rootstock combinations.
Regional applicability
This research was conducted in China using greenhouse production methods and coconut coir cultivation, which are not widely adopted in United Kingdom commercial tomato production. However, the grafting methodology and rootstock evaluation approach may have transferable value for UK glasshouse operations seeking disease-resistant or stress-tolerant rootstocks, though cultivar selection and environmental adaptation would require local validation.
Key measures
Graft survival rate, plant height, stem diameter, fresh and dry weight, root-shoot ratio, strong seedling index, chlorophyll content, mineral element concentrations (K, Ca, Mg, Fe, Na, Mn, Cu), fruit yield, fruit hardness, soluble solids, soluble sugar, titratable acid, vitamin C and lycopene content
Outcomes reported
The study evaluated graft survival rates, seedling growth parameters, physiological characteristics, fruit yield and quality across four rootstock varieties grafted onto 'Ruifen 882' tomato scion under coconut coir cultivation. The R/GUO (Ruifen 882/Guozhen 1) combination demonstrated superior performance in graft survival (98%), physiological traits, fruit quality and yield.
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