Tomato Residues as Biostimulant in Radish: an Ecological Strategy for Sustainable Agriculture

Objective: To evaluate the effect of a tomato residue biostimulant on the growth and development of rasidsh (Raphanus sativus L) by comparing foliar and irrigation applications with a chemical treatment and a control. Theoretical Framework: The use of natural biostimulants from plant residues is a sustainable alternative to improve agricultural yields. Tomato residues contain phenolic compounds and flavonoids that promote the production of this crop. Method: The biostimulant was applied in three concentrations (25, 50 and 75 mL) by irrigation and foliar spraying. Aagronomic parameters such as plant height, leaf number, chlorophyll content and root biomass were evaluated. Results and Discussion: The 50 mL treatment applied by irrigation showed the greatest increases in growth and biomass, even outperforming the chemical treatment. The effectiveness of the biostimulant is attributed to its hight content of antioxidant compounds an its antioxidant capacity. Research Implications: These results suggest that tomato waste can be reused as agricultural biostimulants to promote more sustainable production. Originality/Value: This study demonstrates the potential of plant waste as an environmentally friendly agricultural input.