Grafting Technology with Locally Selected Eggplant Rootstocks for Improvement in Tomato Performance

Abstract

Grafting technology is one of the best alternatives to mitigate limiting factors to tomato production (Solanum lycopersicum L). The study aimed to assess grafting combinations of tomato scions and rootstocks of eggplant (S. melongena L.) varieties Gelatik, EG203 line, and Takokak (S. torvum Sw.). Tomato varieties Cervo, Karina, and Timoty were used as scions. The grafted Cervo and Timoty yielded 30% more than non-grafted plants. The results show that grafted tomatoes suppressed disease incidence by more than 20%. The suppression resulted in higher shelf-life capacity and total dissolved solids of more than 10%, red colour intensity (a+) of more than 16%, lycopene content, fruit hardness level of more than 20%, and reduced water content by more than 1%. Vitamin C content was not affected by grafting technology. There is the potential for economic performance in the market for producers and consumers. Grafting technology in tomatoes using eggplants as rootstock could reduce disease incidence and improve agronomic aspects, product quality, and nutrient contents. Different cultivars of scions and rootstock showed different responses. Grafting technology could be disseminated to farmers for economic advantages during the off-season.