Particle films: chabazitic zeolites with added microorganisms in the protection and growth of tomato plants (Lycopersicon esculentum L.)

In this experiment, given the excellent premises for the use of zeolites in agriculture, the biostimulation and protection capacity of a new chabazite zeolite enriched with microorganisms on tomato plants was evaluated, in order to introduce sustainable innovations on the market that can facilitate the reduction of plant protection products and synthetic fertilizers. The experimentation was divided into two parallel trials, one concerning the growth and biostimulation of tomato plants by mixing appropriate amounts of zeolite enriched with microorganisms (diameter of zeolite 3-6 mm) to the growing medium. The second experiment, instead, concerned the use of micronized chabazite zeolites (D 10 µm) enriched with microorganisms in the protection from pathogenic fungi (Phytophthora infestans, Leivellula taurica). The test showed a significant improvement in agronomic parameters analysed in tomato plants treated with granular chabazite (3-6 mm) enriched with microorganisms and an improvement in protection against Phytophthora infestans and Leivellula taurica with the use of micronized zeolite also enriched with microorganisms. Zeolites and more specifically chabazite once added into the growing medium can improve the absorption of water and fertilisers and also increase the quality of cultivated plants.  The presence of beneficial microorganisms added to chabazite, further improves these aspects and provides the plant with greater protection from biotic and abiotic stress.