Foliar applications of a legume-derived protein hydrolysate elicit dosedependent increases of growth, leaf mineral composition, yield and fruit quality in two greenhouse tomato cultivars

Summary: This study explored the effects of a natural plant biostimulant, a legume-derived protein hydrolysate (Trainer®), on the yield, physiological performance, and fruit quality of two tomato cultivars, Akyra and Sir Elyan, in a greenhouse setting. The research focused on assessing yield performance, CO2 assimilation, mineral composition, and fruit quality attributes following biostimulant treatments at two concentrations (2.5 and 5.0 ml L−1) applied as foliar sprays every 10 days.

The application of legume-derived protein hydrolysate as a foliar spray enhances both the yield and quality of tomato fruits, with cultivar-specific responses. Akyra and Sir Elyan benefited differently from the biostimulant, with improvements in either fruit number or weight, respectively. The study suggests that using a higher concentration of the biostimulant (5.0 ml L−1) is particularly effective in boosting both crop productivity and the nutritional and functional quality of tomato fruits, providing valuable insights for tomato growers aiming for sustainable and high-quality yields.

Publication: Scientia Horticulturae

Foliar applications of a legume-derived protein hydrolysate elicit dosedependent increases of growth, leaf mineral composition, yield and fruit quality in two greenhouse tomato cultivars

Author: Y. Rouphael, G. Colla , M. Giordanoa , C. El-Nakhela , M. C. Kyriacouc, S. De Pascale

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