Interaction of beneficial microorganisms and phenolic compounds in hydroponically cultivated tomato plants
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: The combined effects of applying extracts derived from plant debris and biostimulant microorganisms have not been thoroughly investigated. Furthermore, the interaction between these components and plants remains poorly understood. Utilizing the commercial cherry tomato ( Solanum lycopersicum cv. Unidarkwin) as a study model, we conducted a hydroponic experiment in a controlled growth chamber to assess the impact of foliar application of phenolic compounds extracted from Vitis vinifera leaves, combined with the inoculation of Trichoderma harzianum or Bacillus velezensis via roots. Plant growth, gas exchange and root architecture were measured and mineral nutrients, chlorophylls and phenolic compounds were analysed. The results showed that phenolic compounds produced an increase in root fresh weight, by the enhanced root length. This could be related to the improved transpiration rate, sub-stomatal CO 2 concentration, phosphorus and iron concentration in the roots. A positive effect was also found by B. velezensis application in root length development that could be related to the increase in hydraulic conductance. However, T. harzianum inoculation only showed higher root diameter and volume in combination to phenolic application, but with no effect on growth. The absence of caffeic acid and sinapic acid in the Hoagland solution used in the B. velezensis treatments and of chlorogenic acid in all treatments with added microorganisms suggested their metabolization. Therefore, our findings establish that the phenolic exudation could regulate the interaction of microorganism with plants resulting in beneficial physiological changes. • Transport of phenolic compounds from tomato leaves to roots and releasing into the environment through the roots is observed. • Bacillus velezensis produced tomato root length development related to increase in hydraulic conductance. • Trichoderma harzianum inoculation in combination to phenolic application produced higher tomato root diameter and volume. • Utilization of these microorganisms and phenolics contributed to increase water, iron and phosphorus uptake by tomato plants.
Language: English
Subfield: Plant Science
Domain: Life Sciences
SDG: Zero hunger
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $3,990
OpenAlex ID: W4408459767