Assessment of the Impact of Gamma Radiation Dosages on the Growth and Developmental Characteristics of Brown Cherry Tomatoes

Abstract

In this study, dry seeds of a brown cherry tomato variety were subjected to gamma irradiation at various doses (0, 30, 40, 50, and 70 Gy) to evaluate the effects of gamma radiation on the growth and development of the variety. The irradiated seeds were germinated for 10 days to assess the germination rate, seedling height, and to determine the median lethal dose (LD₅₀). After 4 weeks of nursing, the seedlings were transplanted into a substrate consisting of soil, coconut coir, and organic fertilizer, followed by the recording of growth and developmental parameters. The results indicated that the 30 Gy dose was optimal for seed germination (over 70%) and seedling elongation (over 23 mm). The LD₅₀ for this brown cherry tomato variety was determined to be 45.27 Gy. Although the 50 Gy dose showed superior stimulation in certain criteria, such as plant height (187 cm) and fruit Ca²⁺ content (over 73 ppm), the 30 Gy dose was overall considered to have the most favorable impact on the growth, development, and mineral nutrient content of this variety.