Effects of Superabsorbent Polymer on Yield and Some characteristics of Tomato under Various Irrigation Regimes

In order to evaluate the effect of the super absorbent polymer application on tomato plant under different irrigation intervals in field condition, an split plot experiment in a completely randomized block design (CRBD) at three replications was carried out at the Agricultural Research Station, University of Ilam, Iran at 2013. Main plot consisted of four levels of irrigation (2, 4, 6 and 8 days) and sub-plot was consisted of super absorbent (100, 170, 240 and 310 kg.ha-1). The Fruits were harvested at the ripening stage and traits were assessed. Results showed significant effects of irrigation and superabsorbent polymer on total yield and plant physiological parameters including relative water content (RWC), water use efficiency (WUE), chlorophyll and proline content of leaves and electrolyte leakage. In drought conditions total yield, RWC, WUE and chlorophyll reduced but electrolyte leakage, proline content and WUE increased. Application of super absorbent lead to decreases on the negative effects of drought on the studied traits. Application of superabsorbent polymer significantly increased total yield, RWC, WUE, chlorophyll and reduced electrolyte leakage and proline content. The results clearly showed that the use of super absorbent polymer can expand irrigation intervals in planting tomatoes without loss of yield and product quality.