Summary
This controlled glasshouse experiment investigated how granular rockwool water content and substrate type influence tomato plant transpiration, with the aim of optimising irrigation for high-Brix fruit production. The authors demonstrated that pF increased sharply at a critical water content specific to each rockwool type, and that transpiration rates remained stable until substantial water stress was imposed (1500 g deficit), suggesting substrate-specific thresholds for irrigation management. The findings provide quantitative basis for controlling water availability in soilless tomato cultivation to balance yield and fruit quality.
Regional applicability
This research on glasshouse hydroponics using granular rockwool is directly relevant to United Kingdom protected cropping systems, particularly commercial tomato production under glass. The substrate types and controlled environment methodology align with UK horticulture practice, though UK growers may use alternative rockwool formulations and climate conditions differ; the underlying principles of water-content-dependent transpiration control would transfer to UK operations.
Key measures
Transpiration rate (g·plant⁻¹·day⁻¹), leaf water potential (MPa), pF (soil water potential), water content (g·pot⁻¹), diurnal transpiration changes
Outcomes reported
The study measured transpiration rates and leaf water potential of tomato plants grown in granular rockwool under three water content treatments, and analysed how pF (soil water potential) varied with water content across different rockwool types. Results showed transpiration was significantly reduced only at the lowest water content (1500 g less than saturated), with water potential following similar patterns.
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