Control of Fruit Cracking by Treatment of Low Osmotic Potential Solution in Hydroponically Cultured Cherry Tomato.

Summary

This hydroponic study demonstrated that nocturnal exposure of cherry tomato plants to low osmotic potential solutions (−0.36 MPa using polyethylene glycol) reduced fruit cracking to approximately 65% of control levels. The mechanism appeared to involve suppression of plant water absorption during night hours, resulting in lower fruit and leaf water potentials and consequently reduced turgor-driven cracking. Importantly, the treatment did not adversely affect fruit quality parameters including size, sweetness, or firmness.

Regional applicability

This research was conducted in Japan and addresses a specific problem in controlled hydroponic production of cherry tomatoes. The findings are potentially transferable to United Kingdom glasshouse and hydroponic horticulture operations, particularly those producing premium cherry tomato varieties where fruit quality and cracking losses are economically significant, though climatic differences and growing season length may influence practical adoption.

Key measures

Fruit cracking incidence (%), fruit water potential (MPa), leaf water potential (MPa), fruit size, Brix (soluble solids), fruit hardness

Outcomes reported

The study measured the incidence of fruit cracking in cherry tomatoes treated with low osmotic potential solutions and assessed associated changes in fruit and leaf water potentials, fruit size, soluble solids content, and fruit hardness.

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