Optimizing growth and nutrient uptake of spinach (Spinacia oleracea) in hydroponic systems through varied fertilizer concentrations

Abstract

Spinach, scientifically known as Spinacia oleracea, is a leafy green plant originating from central and western Asia, belonging to the Amaranthaceae family. It is highly regarded for its nutritional benefits and versatility in culinary applications. It is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, several B vitamins, and essential minerals such as iron, calcium, magnesium, and manganese. In this study, we employed hydroponic cultivation within a vertical farming system, an advantageous method as urbanization continues to limit available agricultural land. Hydroponics also uses less water than traditional soil-based farming. This research aimed to assess how spinach plants respond to hydroponic systems and determine the optimal concentration of a fertilizer mixture (AB Mix). We tested different fertilizer concentrations: T1 at 100% of the Recommended Daily Nutrient (RDN), T2 at 90% of RDN, and T3 at 80% of RDN, comparing them to soil-grown spinach (T4: natural soil with 100% of RDN). Data on plant height, number of leaves, and yield were collected weekly from five tagged plant cups. The experiment was conducted using a completely randomized design. The results revealed that different concentrations of the AB Mix had significantly varied effects on plant height, leaf number, and fresh weight. The T2 treatment (90% of RDN) was found to be the most effective fertilizer concentration.