Recent insights into tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) cultivations in deep water culture systems

Abstract

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) production is increasingly challenged by water limitations and declining soil quality, necessitating efficient alternatives to conventional cultivation. This review examines the performance of tomato plants grown under hydroponic Deep-Water Culture (DWC) systems, with the objective of synthesizing current knowledge on their physiological responses and comparative productivity. Evidence indicates that DWC enhances biomass accumulation, photosynthetic efficiency, stomatal regulation, chlorophyll content, and root system development through the continuous supply of oxygenated, nutrient-rich solution. Improved water-use dynamics and nutrient uptake contribute to stable physiological function and reduced exposure to abiotic stress. Furthermore, when compared with soil-based cultivation and other hydroponic systems, DWC consistently supports superior vegetative growth, reproductive performance, and yield outcomes. Overall, this review underscores the potential of DWC as a high-efficiency and sustainable approach for optimizing tomato production, particularly within controlled environment agriculture. DWC systems significantly enhance tomato growth and yield through precise control of oxygenation and nutrient delivery, offering a sustainable alternative to soil-based cultivation. However, research gaps persist in developing integrated precision agriculture frameworks and genotype-specific strategies that optimize nutrient management, environmental adaptability, and cultivar performance under hydroponic conditions.