Abstract:
Dwarf
Solanum lycopersicum plants were subjected to pot cultivation to evaluate the effects of seven foliar-spray treatments—CK (control), Z (0.15 mg/L Pengbozaomei), A (100 mg/L 5-aminolevulinic acid), B (0.6 mg/L 2,4-dichlorobrassinolide), ZA (0.15 mg/L Pengbozaomei+100 mg/L 5-aminolevulinic acid), ZB (0.15 mg/L Pengbozaomei+0.6 mg/L 2,4-dichlorobrassinolide), and AB (100 mg/L 5-aminolevulinic acid+0.6 mg/L 2,4-dichlorobrassinolide)—on fruit appearance, nutritional composition, flavor attributes, and volatile profiles. The objective was to elucidate regulatory effects on fruit development and quality enhancement to support yield optimization and nutritional improvement in cultivated
S. lycopersicum. Results showed that treatment Z accelerated the onset of fruit coloration by 17.86% compared with CK, concurrently reducing chlorophyll content and elevating levels of carotenoids, lycopene, and soluble solids. Treatment ZB significantly enhanced fruit expansion during the swelling period and produced the highest total yield. Treatment ZA increased vitamin C (V
C) content and sugar-to-acid ratio, indicating enhanced flavor balance and antioxidant potential. Collectively, Pengbozaomei application facilitated earlier color change, promoted the biosynthesis of key antioxidant compounds such as V
C and carotenoids, and enhanced the development of favorable sensory qualities. Combinational treatments integrating Pengbozaomei with phytohormonal regulators further amplified these effects, resulting in improved nutritional quality and elevated fruit yield in
S. lycopersicum.