EFFECTS OF CHROMIUM ON THE NUTRIENT CONTENT AND MORPHOLOGY OF TOMATO

An hydroponic experiment was conducted to study the effects of chromiu m (Cr3+) on the distribution of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassiu m (K), sodium (Na), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), and Cr in the plant, and the growth and yield of a tomato plant. Three Cr treatments were established (0, 50, and 100 mg Cr/L in a nutrient solution). In genera l, the nutrient element concentration in stems and branches was signif icantly affected by the Cr treatments. Chromium accumulated preferenti ally in the roots and low transport was detected to the aerial parts. Growth was diminished due to Cr presence in the nutrient solution. Tot al yield was not affected, however the number of fruits was diminished and the mean fresh weight of fruit increased with each increment of C r in the nutrient solution. Chromium was not detected in the edible pa rt (fruit) of the plant.