Biostimulants for tomato: application, dosage and results

Application of biostimulants for tomato

The application of biostimulants for tomato is crucial in modern agriculture. These products, based on natural extracts and microorganisms, help improve plant growth and productivity. Biostimulants are generally applied at different stages of crop development, from sowing to harvest time, in order to maximize their effectiveness. It is essential to choose the right type of biostimulant and the appropriate dose for each crop phase, which will ensure optimal results. For more information, consult our article on biostimulants for tomato.

Tomato crop development stages and their relationship with biostimulants

Biostimulants can be applied at various stages of the tomato crop cycle, and each of these stages presents specific characteristics that require particular attention. These stages include:

• Germination: In this phase, the application of biostimulants can favor the activation of seed metabolism, improving the germination rate by up to 20% according to studies conducted under controlled conditions. A practical example includes the application of algae extracts containing auxins, which stimulate cell elongation, thus promoting faster development. A study under greenhouse conditions showed that applying a seaweed-based biostimulant to tomato seeds resulted in 25% more emerging seedlings compared to the control.
• Vegetative growth: During this phase, biostimulants help increase root development and leaf mass, resulting in more robust plant growth. Research has shown that using seaweed extracts at this stage can lead to a 30% increase in leaf biomass. In a field trial, treatments with microorganisms such as Trichoderma harzianum showed a significant increase in root length, facilitating nutrient uptake. A practical case in an intensive farming operation demonstrated that applying a biostimulant during the vegetative phase increased the plant's ability to absorb nitrogen, resulting in a 15% increase in total yield.
• Flowering: At this stage, biostimulants based on amino acids and bioactive compounds can increase the number of flowers and improve pollination, resulting in a 15% increase in the number of set fruits. For example, the use of plant protein extracts has been shown to increase ethylene production, a natural regulator that promotes flowering. A study conducted in greenhouses showed that applying a biostimulant during the flowering phase improved the fruit set rate by 20%, resulting in a significant increase in final production.
• Fruiting: Applying biostimulants during this phase can improve fruit quality, increasing soluble solids content and reducing disease incidence, leading to better market prices. Research indicates that using chitosan-based biostimulants can increase resistance to fungal diseases, thereby improving fruit quality. An example of this was observed on a farm where a chitosan-based biostimulant was applied, achieving a 40% reduction in the incidence of post-harvest diseases.

Recommended doses of biostimulants for tomato

Type of Biostimulant	Dose (L/ha)	Application Phase	Price (€/L)
Seaweed extracts	2-4	Before sowing	12
Beneficial microorganisms	1-3	Vegetative growth phase	15
Bioactive compounds	0.5-1	Flowering phase	18
Amino acid-based biostimulants	1-2	Post-harvest	20

Factors influencing biostimulant dosage

The dose of biostimulants can vary depending on several factors, including:

• Soil conditions: Soils with high organic matter may require lower doses of biostimulants, while poor soils can benefit from higher doses. A study in clay soils showed that applying mycorrhiza-based biostimulants significantly increased phosphorus availability, improving plant growth. In sandy soil conditions, it has been documented that biostimulant application can increase water retention by 30%, which is essential for optimal root development.
• Climate: Under water or thermal stress conditions, more frequent applications or higher doses may be required to maximize the beneficial effect. For example, in warm climates, using biostimulants that improve soil water retention can be essential for maintaining healthy tomato growth. Research has shown that under high-temperature conditions, biostimulant application can increase photosynthetic activity by 15%, contributing to better plant growth.
• Tomato variety: Some varieties may respond better to certain types of biostimulants, so preliminary trials are recommended. In a comparative trial, it was observed that 'Roma' tomato varieties responded better to amino acid-based biostimulants, showing a 25% increase in yield. In contrast, the 'Cherry' variety showed a superior response to seaweed extract-based biostimulants, indicating the importance of tailoring applications according to the variety.
• Production goals: If the goal is to increase fruit quality, specific biostimulants can be applied at critical stages to maximize