Synergistic Effects of Rice Husk Pre-Treatment Forms and NPK Fertilizer Rates on Nutrient Uptake, Bioactive Compounds, and Physicochemical Quality of Tomato

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of rice husk pre-treatment forms combined with different NPK fertilizer rates on nutrient uptake and fruit quality parameters of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) under pot conditions in a greenhouse. The experiment was arranged in a factorial randomized block design with two factors: (T) rice husk pre-treatment forms (powder and compost), and (D) NPK fertilizer rates (0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% of the recommended dose). Each treatment combination was replicated three times, with three plants per replication. Data collected included N, P, and K uptake, vitamin C content, total flavonoids, ß-carotene, antioxidant Activity (IC-50), total soluble solids, firmness and fruit dry weight. Results indicated significant interaction effects between rice husk pre-treatment forms and NPK rates on nutrient uptake and fruit quality parameters. The combination of rice husk compost with 75% NPK showed the highest nutrient uptake. The combination of rice husk powder with 75% NPK improved bioactive compound levels and antioxidant activity. The combination of rice husk powder with 50% NPK improved the dry weight and firmness of the fruit. These findings highlight the potential for integrating organic pre-treatments with optimized fertilizer use to enhance tomato quality while reducing chemical inputs.