Summary
This field trial evaluated ten progressive nitrogen fertigation treatments for hydroponically grown tomato in coir medium under tropical greenhouse conditions. The authors identified an optimum nitrogen schedule (50, 60, 90 and 140 mg/plant/day during vegetative, early reproductive, middle reproductive and late reproductive stages respectively) that maximised yield and plant nutrient status whilst reducing fertiliser cost and environmental nitrogen loss. The findings support improved nitrogen use efficiency in protected soilless culture systems.
Regional applicability
This study was conducted in Sri Lanka's tropical climate and may have limited direct applicability to United Kingdom growing conditions, which differ markedly in photoperiod, temperature and humidity. However, the methodological approach to optimising nitrogen fertigation across plant growth stages is transferable to UK protected horticulture, and the principle of nitrogen use efficiency remains relevant to UK policy on sustainable fertiliser management.
Key measures
Plant nutrient status, growth parameters, total marketable yield, nitrogen application rates (mg/plant/day) across growth stages
Outcomes reported
The study identified optimum nitrogen application rates (50, 60, 90 and 140 mg/plant/day across vegetative and reproductive stages) that maximised plant nutrient status and total marketable yield. The recommended schedule reduced fertiliser costs and environmental contamination risk compared to conventional nitrogen management.
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