Research article Growth and Quality Performance of Pak Choy (Brassica rapa subsp. chinensis) in Different Growing Media Under Nft Hydroponic System
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.24925/turjaf.v14i6.1494-1500.8446Keywords:
Nutrient Film Technique, Aeration, Substrate, Soilless cultivation, Cocopeat, BiomassAbstract
Due to climate extremes, decreasing arable land, and increasing demand for vegetable production, traditional agriculture has become insufficient, and there is a serious need for sustainable soilless cultivation methods like hydroponics. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of five different growing media: cocopeat, sponge, perlite, rice husk, and sand, on the growth and yield performance of Pak Choy (Brassica rapa subsp. chinensis) under a Nutrient Film Technique (NFT) hydroponic system. The experiment was conducted using a completely randomized design with four replications under controlled greenhouse conditions. Growth parameters, including plant height, number of leaves, leaf length and width, canopy diameter, and shoot and root biomass (fresh and dry) were recorded. Statistical analysis, conducted using ANOVA and DMRT, revealed significant differences among the treatments. Among the tested media, cocopeat showed superior performance, producing the broadest leaf width, largest canopy diameter, highest number of leaves, total soluble solids(TSS) and high root and shoot biomass. Sponge promoted relatively higher leaf length, plant height, and chlorophyll content, but was less effective for shoot growth. Perlite consistently underperformed across all measured parameters. Rice husk and sand produced moderate results but lacked consistency and vigor. The results suggest that cocopeat is the most effective medium for promoting vegetative growth and yield in Pak Choy. Its adoption in NFT hydroponics could contribute to food security, resource efficiency, and sustainable urban agriculture, particularly in developing countries facing land and water limitations.
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