ISHS Acta Horticulturae 554: World Congress on Soilless Culture: Agriculture in the Coming Millennium
POLYESTER FLEECE AS SUBSTRATE FOR SOILLESS CULTURE |
| Authors: | F.G. Schroeder, R. Foerster |
| Keywords: | hydroponic system, substrate, polyester fleece, Cucumis sativus |
| Abstract:
The aim of this investigation was to develop a new inert substrate, which allows better nutrient solution management until the end of the culture. Tests were carried out with cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) using polyester fleece as substrate for soilless culture for 3 years. A commercial yield potential should be expected. For this reason screening with different fleece materials was done first. Selected physical parameters of fleece were determined. Root weight and yield of plants in different substrates like rockwool, perlite, expanded clay, and polyester fleece (small, medium and big size) were compared. Results show no significant differences in the early yield of cucumbers. The total yield was different between the different fleece substrates and rockwool. A higher yield in polyester fleece (medium size) resulted. The fruit quality was not influenced by substrates. The root dry weight was significantly higher in rockwool than in fleece variants. Between the fleece variants there were no differences. The root distribution was quite different than in other substrates. The developed polyester fleece is suitable for vegetable crops, as well as other substrates. For fleece a special water management is necessary to improve the results. | |
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