Summary
Root restriction is an agronomic technique that influences plant morphology, physiology, and productivity. This study investigates the effects of root restriction on tomato growth, fruit quality, yield, and rhizosphere microbial communities using three distinct substrates: sand, soil, and peanut shell substrate (PSS), within a Simplified Automatic Soilless Culture System (SAS). Results demonstrated that root restriction at 8 cm height significantly enhanced fruit quality indicators: soluble sugar content increased by 69.01% (sand), 53.84% (soil), and 37.67% (PSS); soluble protein increased by 77.23%, 48.14%, and 66.51%; and lycopene increased by 100.03%, 62.33%, and 74.59%, respectively, compared to the 24 cm baseline. However, single-plant yield declined by 28.30% (sand), 64.28% (soil), a
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