Einfluss der Wasserversorgung auf biomorphologische und pflanzenphysiologische Merkmale von Tomatenjungpflanzen in Holzfasersubstrat

Abstract

Recently the use of the mixture with wood fiber substrates for cultivation of vegetable transplants has received increasing attention. Several experiments were conducted to investigate the effect of water supply on bio-morphological and plant-physiological parameters of tomato transplants cultivated in pure wood fiber substrates in order to optimize cultivation. Optimal growth of transplants in these substrates requires high moisture levels. Comparing time-dependent with water-tension-dependent irrigation (φ = -30 hPa) showed that almost identical bio-morphological plant characteristics were achieved. In an ebb/flood system, irrigation pulses are recommended at φ = -30 hPa for better leaf morphological parameters and optimal root development of tomato transplants in a coarse substrate. Measurements of free proline in plants grown under these irrigation levels support these results. Critical water tension for irrigation pulses and content of free proline in tomato transplants were closely correlated (r(2)=0.95).