EFFECTS OF DIFFERENT SELENIUM CONCENTRATIONS OF THE NUTRIENT SOLUTION ON THE GROWTH AND QUALITY OF TOMATO FRUIT IN HYDROPONICS

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of selenium concentrations in nutrient solution on growth and fruit quality of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) hydroponics. Applied selenium concentrations in nutrient solution were 0 (control), 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 (ppm), respectively. The tomato standard solution of National Horticulture Research Institute of Korea was used. Tested tomato was ‘Super momotaro’ of Dakii seed (Japan). Selenium was supplied from enlargement stage of first truss. There was no difference in plant height among the treatments. Fruit weight and fruit number were the highest in Se 0.5 me•L^-1 treatment. Percentage of dry matter of fruit was the highest in the control. The fruit firmness tended to increase with increasing selenium concentrations. The soluble solid contents were not affected by supplying selenium. The free sugar contents decreased with increasing selenium concentrations. Titrable acidity was higher in control than in other treatments. Selenium and lycopene contents in tomato fruit increased with increasing selenium treatments.