Gelatin capsules as a delivery system for tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) seed enhancements

Seed enhancements involve post-harvest modifications of seeds intended to improve germination and plant performance. This includes seed modifications that facilitates the delivery of other plant-benefiting components (e.g., nutrients or plant protectants). This study examined the use of tomato-seed encapsulation as a possible extension of seed coatings. Placing seeds within gelatin capsules offers potential benefits including space for greater volumes of additives, separation between protectant chemicals and seeds, minimised human exposure to agrochemicals, and improved uniformity for mechanical planters. The objectives of this study were to determine if seed encapsulation alters seedling emergence, plant performance and serves as a delivery-system for controlled-release fertilizers. The results demonstrate that seed encapsulation delayed initial plant emergence by one day, and between one and two days for encapsulation with fertilizer treatments. Gelatin capsules alone in comparison with the control improved early root development, promoted plant growth and increased fruit production, indicative of gelatin’s biostimulant properties. The addition of controlled-release fertilizers (especially Florikan, 18:6:8) provided greater aboveground, belowground and total plant mass. The results of this study support the concept that seed encapsulation can improve tomato performance, and that other component(s) can be successfully delivered to provide additional plant benefits.