Premier Tech Horticulture – Tomato Substrate trials

Robert Heintz, a student in the ABS-CEA program, used different blends of PremierTech Horticulture root zone substrate products to begin his greenhourse trials on tomato crop production in Spring 2019.   This research built on the previous years trials to assess plant performance, including yield and quality of tomato fruit.  Robert's most recent research lead to development of new, high performing, substrate products that can be re-used. The novel approach to substrate re-use can reduce plastic consumption in CEA as well as preserving peat bogs.  This research aligns with the CEAC  mission to increase sustainability and minimize the environmental footprint of nutritious food production. 

Robert came to University of Arizona from Hawaii where he grew papaya and other tropical crops near an active volcano.  No stranger to growing crops in unusual places;  Robert fit right in at the CEAC.  Robert enjoys the challenge of growing tomatoes in the desert.  In Hawaii Robert grew “keiki” papaya trees in a novel substrate mixture of macadamia nut husks and volcanic cinders.  He is now experimenting with different substrates and beneficial organisms for use in hydroponics.  Robert is interested in joining the multi-million dollar seed corn industry in Hawaii after graduation.  He hopes to help feed the word by speeding up the maize breeding process.  Robert also has a passion for growing orchids in his spare time.