Integrated Biofertilizers and Precision Irrigation Enhance Tomato Yield and Nutrient Use Efficiency

Abstract

The combined use of biofertilizers and precision irrigation was assessed to optimize tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) productivity and nutrient uptake. Treatments included nitrogen-fixing bacteria (Azospirillum spp.), phosphate solubilizers, and mycorrhizal fungi, applied with drip irrigation scheduled using soil moisture sensors. The integrated system led to a 32% increase in fruit yield and reduced water use by 24% compared to conventional practices.
Nutrient uptake efficiency (NUE and PUE) improved significantly, while post-harvest quality attributes such as lycopene content and firmness were enhanced. The study supports the synergy between bio-based inputs and smart irrigation to improve crop performance sustainably.