The Cajamar Experience Centre continues to move forward in its search for innovative solutions to increase efficiency and sustainability in horticultural production.
Among its most recent trials, tomato research stands out, focusing on improving soil health, fruit quality and reducing losses throughout the production cycle, according to the centre's director, Carlos Baixauli.
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A parral greenhouse as a testing ground
The trials are being carried out in a parral type greenhouse with mesh covering, a structure widely used across the Mediterranean basin. Specifically, the work is taking place in a Valencian tomato crop grown under 2 systems: grafted and non grafted plants. The grafted plants are trained on 2 arms to take advantage of the rootstock's vigour, while the non grafted plants are grown with a single stem.
This approach makes it possible to assess how plant vigor and crop architecture influence overall crop performance.
Biocidal plants to address soil problems
One of the key pillars of the project is the introduction of biocidal species, such as cabbages and radishes, as part of a sustainable soil management strategy. These crops are grown in autumn and incorporated into the soil in winter, making use of their biofumigation properties.
During the spring and summer season, the team analyses their effect on pests and diseases, comparing treated plots with untreated control areas to assess their effectiveness as an alternative tool within integrated management programs.
Varieties and fruit cracking control
The trial also includes varietal evaluations and a specific study on fruit cracking, within the framework of the Craktom project, developed in collaboration with the Institute of Agrochemistry and Food Technology (IATA CSIC). The aim is to identify the causes behind this issue, which has a direct impact on tomato market quality, and to design strategies to reduce its incidence.
Cutting losses at the source
Baixauli stresses that this research is designed to reduce food waste not only at postharvest level, but also during crop production itself. Fruit cracking and other physiological disorders lead to downgraded produce and yield losses, making preventive measures essential.
Through these initiatives, the Cajamar Experience Centre strengthens its role as a benchmark for applied research, delivering practical solutions for the horticultural sector and contributing to more sustainable and resilient production systems.
Source: plataformatierra.es
