Growth and yield response of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) to soil reconstitution technology

A reconstituted soil, derived from mechanical and chemical treatments of a Technosol mixed with organic matrices, was evaluated as a suitable soil for tomato growth. The physico-chemical properties of the reconstituted and original soils were analysed, and SPAD readings and plant height related to the phenological stages, as well as yield of the whole plant and fruits at maturity were also measured. Reconstitution increased soil porosity, water holding capacity, organic carbon and total nitrogen. Plants grown in the reconstituted soil had a statistically higher height at 16 and 35 days after transplanting. Leaf SPAD value at the emergence of inflorescence was also greater than that measured in the original soil. Shoot and root fresh/dry weights, and number and weight of red fruits were also higher under the reconstituted soil. The results indicate that with the reconstitution technique positive effects can be expected on the improvement of soil degradation and fertility, resulting in better tomato yield.