Abstract

SEGURA-CASTRUITA, Miguel Ángel et al. Growth of tomato plants in a sand-pumice substrate with three irrigation frequencies. Rev. Chapingo Ser.Hortic [online]. 2011, vol.17, n.spe1, pp.25-31. ISSN 2007-4034.

The present study aimed to evaluate the growth of tomato plants in a substrate made from sand (70 % based on volume) plus 30 % particles of pumice 2.38 to 3.35 mm in diameter, to set the frequency of irrigation that does not affect plant development, and to determine the presence of contaminants in the substrate. Tomato seedlings were transplanted in a pumice-sand substrate and subjected to three irrigation frequencies (daily, every three days and every six days).The development of tomato plants was assessed over time and data of plant height, root length, and number of leaves and flowers were recorded. The substrate was analyzed at the beginning and end of the experiment. The results show that tomato plants in sand substrate with pumice and water every day grew more. Water consumption was 600 mL per day at the time of peak demand. The initial moisture retention of the substrate was 44.40 %, of which 56 % was available, conditions that can be exploited in the production of crops in greenhouses.

Keywords : Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.; pumisite; lapilli; greenhouse.