In greenhouse tomato production, nutrient efficiency and irrigation performance are critical to achieving optimal yields. A trial in Mexico demonstrated how Haifa GrowClean™—a breakthrough solution for soilless systems—enhances plant health, increases yields, and boosts grower income. This innovative approach addresses common issues associated with orthophosphate fertilizers, offering a sustainable alternative for modern agriculture.
The Trial Overview
Haifa México, in collaboration with the CEICKOR agricultural research center, conducted a trial to assess the impact of Haifa GrowClean™ on soilless-grown tomatoes. By improving nutrient use efficiency and irrigation system performance, Haifa GrowClean™ increased yield by nearly 6%, translating to higher profitability for growers. Leaf analysis proved that Haifa GrowClean™ enhanced the uptake of potassium, calcium and magnesium while suppressing sodium uptake, thus enhancing plant development and improving yield quality.
Challenges with Orthophosphates
Conventional phosphorus fertilizers like MAP or MKP contain orthophosphates, which often form insoluble compounds with cations such as calcium, magnesium and iron. These issues result in:
Reduced Nutrient Availability: Essential nutrients become inaccessible to plants.
Irrigation System Clogging: Precipitates obstruct water flow, requiring frequent maintenance.
Inefficiency in High pH Conditions: Orthophosphates are less effective, necessitating higher application rates that increase costs and environmental impact.
Sodium problems: deposition of calcium as P-Ca insoluble compound give rise to harmful sodium uptake.
Haifa GrowClean™: A Superior Solution
Haifa GrowClean™ combines orthophosphates and polyphosphates to deliver a balanced phosphorus supply while preventing the formation of insoluble precipitates. Key benefits include:
Enhanced Nutrient Availability: Optimal phosphorus absorption promotes healthier plants.
Proper Functioning and Higher Efficiency of the Irrigation System: The formulation prevents clogs and dismantles existing deposits, reducing cleaning and maintenance efforts. It also reduces sodium problems in the system and the crop.
Sustainable Performance: Ensures a stable pH level and uniform nutrient distribution, supporting sustainable crop production.
Trial details
The trial was conducted in a plastic greenhouse using tomato plants (cv. Merlice) grown on slabs. Both the control plot and Haifa GrowClean™ plot received identical Nutrigation™ programs, differing only in the phosphorus source.
Enhanced Nutrient Uptake with Haifa GrowClean™
Leaf analysis conducted during the trial revealed significant improvements in the uptake of key nutrients such as potassium, calcium, and magnesium in plants treated with Haifa GrowClean™.
Additionally, the analysis demonstrated a notable reduction in sodium uptake, further supporting plant health and development.
Parameter | Control (Orthophosphates) | Haifa GrowClean™ | Improvement | |
| Potassium (K+) | 1st analysis | 59,000 ppm | 98,000 ppm | +66% |
| 2nd analysis | 61,000 ppm | 74,000 ppm | +21% | |
| Calcium (Ca2+) | 1st analysis | 15,900 ppm | 18,000 ppm | +13% |
| 2nd analysis | 13,800 ppm | 19,300 ppm | +40% | |
| Magnesium (Mg2+) | 1st analysis | 3,200 ppm | 2,700 ppm | -16% |
| 2nd analysis | 3,300 ppm | 3,800 ppm | +15% | |
| Sodium (Na+) | 1st analysis | 8,700 ppm | 2,320 ppm | -73% |
| 2nd analysis | 7,800 ppm | 2,370 ppm | -70% |
The improved balance of cation uptake, coupled with reduced sodium levels, contributes to better fruit quality and yield performance.
Yield results
Parameter | Control (Orthophosphates) | Haifa GrowClean™ | Improvement |
Average Fruit Weight | 160 g | 166 g | +3.75% |
Yield | 38 kg/m² | 40.2 kg/m² | +5.7% |
Economic analysis
Parameter | Control (Orthophosphates) | Haifa GrowClean™ | Net Gain ($) |
Fertilizer Cost ($) | 2,572 | 5,610 |
|
Yield (tons/ha) | 380 | 400 |
|
Income ($) | 237,500 | 250,000 | +9,461 |
Based on a yield price of $680/ton | |||
 |  |  |  | |
| Control - orthophosphates | Haifa GrowClean™ | |||
Conclusion
The trial underscores Haifa GrowClean™’s transformative potential for greenhouse crop production. By addressing the limitations of orthophosphate fertilizers, this innovative solution enhances nutrient efficiency, boosts yields, and reduces maintenance costs. For growers aiming for sustainable and profitable operations, Haifa GrowClean™ sets a new benchmark in precision agriculture.
