Stage-specific nutrient solution strength modulates fruit yield and biomass partitioning in cherry tomato ( Solanum lycopersicum var. cerasiforme ) grown in wick hydroponics

Hydroponics provides a precise cultivation system by carefully regulating nutrient supply and environmental conditions to enhance plant growth. This study observed the physiological response of cherry tomato plants (Solanum lycopersicum var. cerasiforme) to five concentrations of AB Mix nutrients (800–1200 ppm) in a wick hydroponic system. A completely randomized design (CRD) with five nutrient concentration levels and three replicates was used in a greenhouse. The parameters observed included plant height, as well as the fresh and dry weights of the stems, roots, and fruits. Nutrient concentration did not significantly affect the parameters during the vegetative phase, but had a noticeable effect on physiological traits during the generative phase. The highest fruit weight per plant was statistically obtained in the 900–1000 ppm concentration range, which formed the group with the highest yield and differed significantly from concentrations ≥1100 ppm. At the same time, the 800–900 ppm treatment tended to support greater stem and root biomass accumulation compared to the 1000–1200 ppm concentration. Higher nutrient concentrations (>1000 ppm) reduced physiological efficiency, possibly due to osmotic stress and nutrient imbalance. These findings emphasize the importance of phase-specific nutrient management and the use of moderate concentration ranges to optimize physiological performance and plant productivity in hydroponic systems.