Phenotypical and biochemical characterization of tomato plants treated with triacontanol

Biostimulants are heterogeneous products designed to support plant development and improve crop yield and quality. Our studies analyzed the impact of triacontanol, a promising biostimulant present in cuticle waxes, on tomato growth and productivity. The application of triacontanol resulted in earlier and enhanced flowering followed by increased fruit yield (+25%) without affecting overall plant growth. The treatment also improved seed germination rates by modulating hormone homeostasis, and mitigated salt stress-induced damage. Proteomic analysis, conducted to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying the effects of triacontanol, revealed in the leaves an increase in proteins associated with development and abiotic stress, while proteins associated with resistance to biotic stresses decreased. In contrast, the proteome of the fruits remained largely unaffected, as well as their metabolic profile, indicating that triacontanol biostimulation de facto did not alter the nutritional qualities of the fruits. These results provide insights into the mechanisms of triacontanol and highlight its potential applications in agriculture.