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In Mexico, macroalgae remain an underexploited resource, including Macrocystis pyrifera which is harvested and used for abalone feed. However, other uses of this alga are possible, such as fertilizer. Some studies have shown the presence of plant growth regulators in brown algae. In this research, we experimented on the effect of powdered M. pyrifera mixed with a commercial horticultural substrate (vermiculite) on the germination of the tomato (Lycopersicum esculentum Mill). The alga was added in the following concentrations: 0.4, 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 and 20% (w/w). Triple 17 fertilizer was compared at the same concentrations. The control was also evaluated with vermiculite and water alone. After saturating the mixture with water, tomato seeds were placed on polypropylene trays for germination in 1 cm² by 5 cm deep cavities. The change in soil texture was analyzed by measuring the stickiness using a texture analyzer TA. XT.plus. One seed was planted per hole and placed in black plastic bags for three days. After this time period, the trays were placed in sunlight under 50% shade conditions. Ten days after seeding we determined the percentage of germination. The stickiness was significantly increased as the concentration of algae was increased, but it did affect adversely until reaching an algae concentration of 6%. Also, the fertilizer affected the plants above 6% concentration.

Palabras clave: Macrocystis; Macroalgae; tomato; fertilizer; plant growth regulators; germination

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