Summary
This 1997 controlled trial investigated the interactive effects of ammonium nitrogen levels and potassium-to-calcium ratios on the development of physiological disorders in glasshouse tomatoes under hydroponic cultivation. Blossom-end rot, a calcium-deficiency disorder, and gold specks (possibly also a calcium-related manifestation) are economically significant quality defects in tomato production. The work suggests that nutrient solution composition, particularly the balance between NH₄-N uptake and cation ratios, influences calcium translocation to developing fruits, though the specific findings are not detailed in the available metadata.
Regional applicability
The findings would be relevant to United Kingdom glasshouse tomato production, which relies heavily on soilless cultivation systems, though specific applicability depends on whether the study conditions (rockwool substrate, climate, cultivar) align with UK commercial practice. Hydroponic nutrient management protocols developed in controlled environments typically have good transferability between temperate regions.
Key measures
Incidence of blossom-end rot; incidence of gold specks; NH₄-N concentration in nutrient solution; K/Ca molar ratio
Outcomes reported
The study examined how ammonium nitrogen levels and potassium-to-calcium ratios in hydroponic nutrient solutions affect the incidence of blossom-end rot and gold specks (likely a calcium-related deficiency symptom) on tomato fruits grown in rockwool substrate.
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