The effect of a preparation based on Bacillus subtilis bacteria on the growth and productivity of tomatoes in closed ground conditions

Relevance . In accordance with scientifically based nutrition standards in Russia, it is necessary to produce about 17 million tons of vegetable products, however, the provision has been achieved only for 8-11% of the country's population. Given the high need for vegetable products, as well as the popularity of tomatoes, the search for promising ways to increase tomato yields is currently relevant. One possible environmentally friendly way is to use biologics. The purpose of the study is to study the effect of the drug "Naturost" (Bacillus subtilis) on the growth and productive indicators of tomato. Materials and Methods . The experiment was staged in a polycarbonate greenhouse in 2021-2023. (Manych tomato) and within the framework of production experience (Prodezo F1 tomato) – in 2023. The studied drug "Naturost" was introduced twice: under the root system during transplantation and along the phyllosphere by spraying plants. The studies evaluated the height of the plants, the number of flowers and buds, the number and weight of fruits. Harvesting of fruits and their assessment in the conditions of a polycarbonate greenhouse was carried out as the fruits were browned, in the production experience – twice a week. Results. Application of the drug "Naturost" increased tomato plant height and flower number by 5–13% and 2.0–3.4 times under polycarbonate greenhouse conditions. The total number of fruits in the variant with the application of the drug was higher than the control by 1.9–3.7 times, the productivity of the crop – by 50–117%. The results of the production experiment demonstrated a less significant effect of the drug in strictly controlled and adjusted hydroponic tomato cultivation conditions: differences in plant height and yield reach only 3–4%. Probably, the main mechanism of activation of tomato growth during the application of the microbial preparation "Naturost" is to increase the resistance of plants to unfavorable cultivation conditions.