Reaction of Tomato Hybrids to Different Ripeness in Conditions of a Multi-Tube Hydroponic, Soil and Lighting Options

Abstract

Abstract The aim of the study was response tomato hybrids in a multi-tube hydroponic technology in a polycarbonate greenhouse and the effect of different lighting in a phytotron on tomato plants. A study was conducted at All-Russian Research Institute of Vegetable Production, Moscow region, Russia and the laboratory of artificial climate (RSAU – MTAA). Eleven tomato hybrids were studied, differing in ripeness groups, by comparing their reactions in a hydroponic system (Phytopyramide) and a greenhouse system (soil). The effect of seven different spectral lighting modes on four hybrids under phytotron conditions (growth chamber) was also studied. Observations revealed a significant effect of hydroponic on maturation period. Hydroponic vertical cultivation has shown excellent results in obtaining an early tomato harvest and an increase in yield per m2 compared to a ground greenhouse. A higher marketable production was obtained with Ruddy ball F1 (25.51 kg/m2) compared to (9.92 kg/m2) in the soil greenhouse. Dichromatic light had the greatest effect on photosynthesis, while monochromatic light had the greatest effect on height growth. An increase in leaf chlorophyll content (SPAD) was obtained with (blue+red) light (620.06) compared to monochromatic green light (319.88). Monochromatic red (23.81 cm) had the greatest lighting effect on plant height compared to monochromatic blue (12.62 cm) the least.