Summary
This two-factorial field experiment evaluated the effect of mycorrhizal fungal inoculation on mineral nutrient concentrations in three tomato cultivars grown in coco coir under controlled conditions. Inoculation with Glomus and Trichoderma fungi resulted in significant increases in phosphorus and iron content in tomato fruit compared with uninoculated control plants, suggesting potential for enhancing nutrient density through fungal symbiosis in protected horticulture.
Regional applicability
The study was conducted in Poland under heated plastic tunnel conditions. Findings may be transferable to United Kingdom protected horticulture systems (polytunnels, glasshouses) where similar controlled-environment tomato production is practised, though UK growers would need to verify fungal strain suitability and compatibility with local growing media and climate conditions.
Key measures
Phosphorus (P), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), copper (Cu), and zinc (Zn) concentrations in dried tomato fruit tissue, analysed using standard chemical laboratory methods
Outcomes reported
The study evaluated the influence of mycorrhizal fungal strains (Glomus and Trichoderma species) on phosphorus and micronutrient concentrations (Fe, Mn, Cu, Zn) in three tomato cultivars grown in a heated plastic tunnel. Fungal inoculation significantly increased phosphorus and iron content in tomato fruit compared with control treatment.
Topic tags
Dig deeper with Pulse AI.
Ask about this record, its theme or its relevance to UK farming and policy. Pulse AI uses selected catalogue evidence and cites the sources it draws on.