Exploring Seaweed Potential to Induce Cold Resistance in Tomato

Abstract

Tomato is a member of the Solanaceae family, one of the most significant vegetable crops worldwide. Tomato fruit is a rich source of vitamins, minerals, dietary fiber and essential amino acids.  Cold stress is an important limiting factor for tomato cultivation, leading to reduced growth, yield and quality. Thus, the purpose of this research was to investigate, how tomato growth, development, productivity and tolerance to abiotic stress specifically, cold stress was improved by seaweed (Ascophyllum nodosum) extract. Various concentration of seaweed extract was given to the tomato plants as T₀ (control), T₁(5mg/L), T₂(10 mg/L), T₃(20 mg/L), T₄(25 mg/L) and T₅ (30 mg/L). This study was carried out to measure the foliar application of seaweed on tomato crop yield during winter season 2023-24. A randomized complete block design (RCBD) was used in this experiment. Results regarding the plant height, number of branches, number of flower, number of fruit per plant, fruit length, fruit diameter and fruit weight. Results showed that the highest plant height LY-36, Pi-7 and Naqeeb followed by LY-47 were observed the T5 (30mg/L). Results showed that the maximum number of flower and fruit Pi-1 followed by Pi-13, Pi-7, Naqeeb and Sahel were observed the T5 (30mg/L). On the other hand, maximum fruit diameter LY-47 followed by CWO-4 were observed T5 (30mg/L). The result showed the maximum fruit weight CWO-4 followed by LY-48 were observed T5 (30mg/L). The findings give a positive correlation between tomato resistance and cold stress. Hence, seaweed extract at the rate of 30 mg/L is recommended for cultivation of tomato under cold conditions.