Comparative assessment on effect of seaweed extracts and levels of RDF on growth, yield and economics of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) var. Saaho

Abstract

The study was conducted during the Rabi seasons of 2023-24 and 2024-25 at the Horticultural Research Farm, SHUATS, Prayagraj, to evaluate the effect of foliar-applied seaweed extracts with Recommended Dose of Fertilizer (RDF) on tomato growth and yield. The experiment, arranged in a Randomized Block Design with 15 treatments and three replications, included 50% and 100% RDF combined with K-SAP and S-SAP at 2%, 4%, and 6%, along with controls. Results showed that T14 (100% RDF + 6% S-SAP) recorded maximum plant height (129.90 cm), branches (14.43), early flowering (57.11 days), and highest fruit yield (5.95 kg/plant) and maximum economic returns (₹5,02,918 ha⁻¹) with a benefit-cost ratio of 7.03, followed by T11 (100% RDF + 6% K-SAP). The superior performance of T14 was attributed to growth-promoting compounds and micronutrients in S-SAP, which enhanced nutrient uptake and efficiency. Minimal seasonal variation confirmed result stability. The findings suggest that integrating seaweed extracts with RDF can sustainably improve tomato growth, yield, and quality.