Comparative Evaluation of the Efficacy of Three Nutrient Solutions for Hydroponic Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) Production in Côte d'Ivoire

Background: The growing demand for tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum L.) in Côte d'Ivoire requires the development of new cultivation techniques and methods across the country. The regular consumption of tomatoes or tomato-based products contributes to the food and nutritional security of the population. However, its low production does not satisfy the Ivorian population.

Objectives: This study was carried out to develop an effective nutrient solution to improve the yield of hydroponic tomatoes in Côte d'Ivoire with the aim of reducing dependence on arable land.

Methodology: Conducted in Bouaké, in the center of the country, this study evaluated three formulations of nutrient solutions on the Mongal F1 tomato variety. Due to the complexity of developing nutrient solutions suitable for all vegetable species, three nutrient solution formulations were prepared by dissolving commercial fertilizers available in local markets. Observations and measurements were made on growth and yield parameters. All data were subjected to an analysis of variance at the 5% level. In case of significant differences, the Tukey test was used for the separation of the means.

Results: The results showed that hydroponics registers to early flowering 28 to 29 days after transplanting, regardless of the nutrient solution used. The height of the plants with solution 1 was lower than that of the plants with solutions 2 and 3, i.e. 58.7 cm compared to 68.2 cm and 67.7 cm. Nutrient Solution 3 produced the highest number of fruits per plant, with 25 fruits, compared to 19 for Solution 2 and 20.5 for Solution 1. This solution proved to be numerically more efficient, with 1128.3 g of marketable fruit per plant, compared to 941.1 g for solution 2 and 1055 g for solution 1. The highest rate of non-marketable fruit was recorded with solution 1, i.e. 4% compared to 3.8% of solution 2 and 2.8% solution 3.

Conclusion: In view of these results, nutrient solution 3 may represent an effective alternative to improve the yield of tomatoes in hydroponics in Côte d'Ivoire. Using this solution will allow growers to adjust nutrient rates and irrigation systems to maximize the yield and quality of marketable fruit.