Mixing Hydrogel Granules into Peat Substrate Improves Germination and Enhances Growth and Physiological Performance of Tomato Seedlings

Abstract The effects of hydrogel granules mixed with peat substrate on germination, morphological and physiological parameters plugged seedlings were tested in tomato seedlings, at two different irrigation regimes. Due to presence, the germination speed was increased, whereas mean time significantly reduced. Slight improvement recorded regarding final but no effect found synchronisation index seedling vigour index. addition a significant increase occurred dry matter shoots plants. No roots, presence reduced length tap root. Interestingly, stomata conductance chlorophyll higher than control statistically interaction between variants frequency, i.e., levels did not depend frequency. Therefore, we recommend mixing capsules into plug improve reduce water fertiliser leaching environment.