Different Growth Media Effect the Germination and Growth of Tomato Seedlings

Abstract

Effect of peat, compost (vegetable waste) and traditional practicing media (soil, sand and farmyard manure) alone and in combinations, was examined on the quality of tomato seedlings (Lycopersicon esculentum L.) at Directorate of Vegetable, DHRD, NARC, Islamabad, during 2013-14. Germination and several seedling quality variables, like, days to emergence, shoot length, height, vigor index, dry matter accumulation and benefit cost ratio, were monitored. Maximum germination percentage (95), seedlings shoot length (26.67 cm), seedling height (35 cm), seedling vigor index (3325) and minimum days to emergence (15.33) were observed in T9 (peat, compost and traditional practicing media in 1:1:1 ratio). Maximum dry matter accumulation (34.80%) was recorded in T1 (peat). Maximum benefit cost ratio (2.70) is calculated for T0 : traditional practicing media (soil, sand and farmyard manure in 1:1:1 ratio). Optimum growth of tomato seedlings was observed when peat, compost and traditional practicing media were used in equal proportions.