National Center for Agricultural Research and Technology Transfer

Effect of H2OLD ® Soil Amendment on Soil Fertility, Lettuce Yield, and Tomato Growth

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Greenhouse experiments were conducted at NCARTT to evaluate the effects of H2OLD ® treatments in the clay-rich potting soil during a tomato seedling experiment and lettuce seedling experiment. H2OLD ® applications were compared to traditional fertilizer applications.

H2OLD ® significantly increased plant yields and growth rates; soil fertility and plant nutrient uptake; and soil water retention.

Photo: Tomato plants had denser foliage, thicker stems, and greater fruit production (right) when treated with H2OLD ® compared to untreated plants (left).

  • H2OLD ® increased plant nutrients in the soil and enhanced the nutrient content in the plant tissues.
  • H2OLD ® treatments increased tomato and lettuce yields, improved growth rates and maturation rates compared to control treatments with and without fertilizer addition.

 

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  • H2OLD ® reduced the clay content, enhancing permeability, root penetration, and aeration for better water availability in the root zone.
  • Water Use Efficiency was enhanced using H2OLD ® applications.

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Reference:
Rusan, M. M., A. Fardous, W. Quasmi, S. Zuraiqi, R. Tahhan, and I. Dwairi. 2001. Report of the project “Effect of H2OLD ® soil amendment on soil fertility and tomato and lettuce growth under pot experiment conditions”. Jordan University of Science and Technology and NCARTT-Ministry of Agriculture, 20pp.