Impact of application of Trichoderma and biochar on growth, productivity and nutritional quality of tomato under reduced N-P-K fertilization

Abstract

Extensive use of synthetic fertilizer to maximize the productivity often leads to depletion of essential soil nutrients, environmental degradation and adversely affects soil rhizosphere microbiota. The present study investigates the efficacy of Trichoderma and biochar co-application on tomato productivity, nutritional quality and soil health improvements under reduced N-P-K fertilizer application. The study comprised of five treatments: (i) standard application of N-P-K, (ii) 50% dose of N-P-K (control), (iii) Trichoderma + 50% dose of N-P-K, (iv) biochar+50% dose of N-P-K and (v) biochar+Trichoderma + 50% dose of N-P-K. The growth, yield, and antioxidant properties of tomatoes, as well as their mineral composition, were analysed. The results showed that the combined application of Trichoderma and biochar increased the growth attributes positively and produced 101.45% and 11.33% higher yield compared to half dose and standard dose of N-P-K, respectively. The combined application also elicited an increase in mineral contents, total soluble solids as well as bioactive molecules such as lycopene and ascorbic acid, thereby increased the nutritional and functional quality of the tomato fruits. Collectively, Trichoderma and biochar improved soil fertility, nutrient uptake and promoted the growth of rhizosphere fungal and bacterial populations, which combined resulted in higher tomato yields, antioxidants, and minerals. Therefore, the co-application of Trichoderma and biochar with a 50% dose of N-P-K can be considered an effective technique for the sustainable production of tomato with higher yield and superior quality.