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Good agricultural practices (GAP) are guidelines designed to ensure the production of high-quality agricultural products that meet specified standards while optimizing resource use. This study aimed to examine the challenges and success factors in implementing a holistic system of GAP in hydroponic vegetable business management and to enhance the efficiency of Thailand's policies on safe agricultural standards. In this study, a qualitative research methodology was used, using in-depth interviews, semi-structured interviews, and observations with 36 intermediaries and consumers in Thailand. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics. The study revealed that key challenges to successful GAP implementation include unsupportive government policies and a lack of in-depth knowledge among farmers on how to effectively apply GAP principles. For successful implementation, it is crucial that farmers who lead these efforts thoroughly understand the methods and prioritize safe and proper farming practices. This knowledge can then be leveraged to prepare and educate farmers, producers, and entrepreneurs to produce high-quality agricultural products. GAP for crops include policies, benchmarks, and audit processes that adhere to international standards, providing a framework for controlling and promoting product quality throughout the agricultural production process, including post-certification maintenance. The study suggests that cooperation across all relevant sectors, from upstream to downstream, is essential for the successful implementation of GAP. Such collaboration would significantly enhance the quality and safety of Thailand's agricultural standards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the United States, the annual revenue attributable to tomato production is $1 billion. However, tomato production can cause negative environmental impacts, such as water pollution, often in the form of eutrophication-causing nutrient pollution. Hydroponic production can decrease excess nutrient leaching; however, optimization of nutrient management and cultivar choices could further decrease excess nutrient discharges. The objectives of this study were as follows: to evaluate and compare the responses of tomato growth characteristics, yield, and yield components to two nutrient management regimes (varying nutrient solution concentrations by growth stage and the use of a constant nutrient solution concentration from transplant to termination), and to analyze the effects of growth habits among six cultivars (Big Beef, Cherokee Purple, Heatmaster, Legend, Mountain Fresh Plus, and Tropic) on tomato yield and yield-correlated morphological characteristics. The nutrient management strategies were applied to tomato plants, and data regarding yield and related morphological characteristics were obtained. Data were analyzed using SAS PROC GLM. An analysis revealed no significant difference in the total fruit weight/plant between nutrient management regimes (P 5 0.05); however, the mean fruit weight (164.26 g) and diameter (71.70 mm) were significantly greater (P < 0.0001) for plants that received the constant concentration nutrient regime. Indeterminate plants had a significantly greater (P < 0.0001) mean fruit weight (192.76 g) and mean fruit diameter (76.42 mm). Among cultivars, Big Beef had a significantly greater (P < 0.05) total fruit weight/plant (9.25 kg). Applying a constant nutrient concentration to indeterminate cultivars, particularly Big Beef and Cherokee Purple, improved the factors analyzed and could decrease negative environmental impacts while increasing profits of the producers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydroponics is a viable alternative for urban contexts with limited resources and space since it offers efficient and low-maintenance planting methods. This study specifically examines the development of synthetic soil by utilizing hydrochar obtained from wild weeds (Amaranthus sp.). X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) were used to study the hydrochar after it was made using the hydrothermal carbonization method. The analysis showed that the hydrochar had an undefined crystal structure and an uneven, varied porosity. The expansion capacity test clearly showed a significant growth potential of 32%. Nevertheless, the water retention tests revealed a progressive decline in the capacity to retain water as time passed. The kinetics model was used to simulate the release of NPK from the counterfeit soil. The P and K components adhered to a first-order model, but the N elements adhered to the Kosmeyer-Peppas model. The use of artificial soil as a substrate for kale plants had excellent outcomes, with the highest growth rate of 0.75 cm reported on day 7. Subsequently, the growth stabilized and gradually decreased to 0.3 cm by day 21. Hydrochar generated from wild weeds (Amaranthus sp.) is a practical choice for hydroponic farming systems, as it provides fertilizer storage and slow-release advantages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agrivoltaic agrotunnels are currently designed for high-density grow walls that are not amenable to bush berries or root crops. Commercial grow bins provide deeper substrates for produce with more root systems but have high costs per unit growing area. To overcome the economic limitations of grow bins, this study applies the distributed manufacturing open-source design paradigm to develop four designs for low-cost open-source structures. The designs target root vegetables and bush fruit specifically to be adopted by remote communities with limited or no outdoor growing environment to offset the market price for imported fresh produce. The indoor growing designs provide the necessary structure for supporting grow lights and grow bins and enable the transplanted berry plants to flower and produce fruits. They provide a comparable amount (110 L) or more of grow volume from 106 to 192 L. The water reservoir volume for the commercial system (62 L) and grow area (0.5 m3) is surpassed by all new designs that range from 64 to 192 L and 0.51 to 0.76 m3, respectively. These superior properties are possible with material costs for all four designs that save more than 90% of the economic cost of the commercial systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the procedures that helps remove pharmaceuticals (Phs) from wastewater in Constructed Wetlands (CWs) is phytoremediation. Using Ruellia simplex, the main emphasis of this study is on the function of plants and substrates in the removal mechanism independently from aqueous solution. Even in an aqueous solution containing high concentrations of antibiotics, the plant could thrive, and lighting further promoted growth. For the removal of amoxicillin (AMX) and ciprofloxacin (CIP) at a concentration of 25 mg/L, six reactors are used: hydroponic planted reactors, sand rectors, chicken manure -- wood shavings (CM-WS) rectors, rhizobacterial-inoculated unplanted reactors, unplanted control reactors, and unplanted dark control reactors to study the roles of phytoremediation, adsorption, biodegradation, photodegradation and hydrolysis process in reduction of AMX and CIP. Additionally, the plant's weight is determined for each sample collected and compared to the initial weight of the experiment to monitor plant growth. The possible fates of AMX and CIP were explored using hydroponic tests, whereby 43%, 26% and 19%, respectively, of the total removal of AMX had been accounted for by plant uptake, adsorption by CM-WS and biodegradation after 21 days of exposure, also these process contributed well in CIP removal, where the proportions were 39%, 32% and 18%, respectively of the total CIP reduction at the same intervals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The consumption of grass juices obtained from cereals for health purposes is increasing day by day. For this purpose, research on different plant solutions has gained momentum. In our study, barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) and oat (Avena sativa L.) grass juices grown in hydroponic conditions were used. Obtained grass juices were applied to pea and lupine seeds in 100% soil (control), 100% pumice, 100% perlite, 100% tea waste and 100% cocopeat substrate. Germination percentage, germination rate, average daily germination, peak value, germination value, root dry and fresh weight, stem dry and fresh weight, root and stem length, plant yield, grass yield, plant yield seed rate, macro and micro (N, P, K, Ca, Mg, Fe, Cu, Zn and Mn) mineral substance contents were investigated pea and lupine. Grass juices were obtained by mowing barley and oat seeds sown in 30 x 50 x 7 cm plastic tubs in ten days and passing them through a juicer. Pea and lupine 25 seeds, which were placed in each pot, were grown in different root media (100% soil, 100% cocopeat, 100% pumice, 100% perlite, and 100% tea waste) under in vitro conditions. 150 ml of water (control), barley grass juice, oat grass juice and barley + oat grass juice were applied to the seeds according to their subjects. The experiment was carried out in 400 pots with 10 replications x 2 species x 4 treatments x 5 media, according to the factorial fully randomised design. As a result of the research, germination physiology (germination percentage, germination rate, average daily germination, peak value and germination value), mineral substance content (N, P, K, Ca, Mg, Fe, Cu, Zn and Mn), growth and yield parameters at (root dry and wet weight, stem dry and wet weight, root and stem length, plant yield, grass yield, plant yield seed rate) barley grass juice application was found to be more effective than other applications after control. In all parameters examined in the research, it was determined that the five different medias used as growing media followed the order of soil>cocopeat>pumice>perlite>tea waste, and after the control and the best growing medium was cocopeat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reduced acreage is available for plant cultivation due to agricultural land conversion. The community can more easily grow plants on small plots of land using a hydroponic system, particularly scallion plants. The purpose of this study is to ascertain how using AB-Mix affects scallion’s output. Scallion’s seeds, husk charcoal, AB Mix nutrition, coconut coir liquid organic fertilizer, water, and mineral water bottles were some of the ingredients used in this study. Using a randomized block design, the study was carried out for 4 months, from July to October 2022, at the Green House of the UKI Toraja Agriculture Faculty. The obtained data, including plant height, tiller count, tuber diameter, and plant weight, were then examined for variance by BNJ with the help of SPSS. The findings demonstrated that the four examined variables were significantly affected by the AB Mix treatment. Plants respond favorably when given AB Mix. In response to plant height, feeding AB MIX nourishment at a consentration of 7.5 ml/L of water worked effectively. According to the number of tillers, feeding AB MIX nourishment at a consentration e of 10.5 ml/L of water worked effectively. The response of AB MIX nutrition to tuber diameter and plant weight was good at 9 ml/L of water. In conclusion, the consentration of 9 ml/L of water is the best dose out of the five treatment consentration offered. because the two observational factors were well-received by the scallion plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydroponics is a soilless farming technique that has emerged as a sustainable alternative. However, new technologies such as Industry 4.0, the internet of things (IoT), and artificial intelligence are needed to keep up with issues related to economics, automation, and social challenges in hydroponics farming. One significant issue is optimizing growth parameters to identify the best conditions for growing fruits and vegetables. These parameters include pH, total dissolved solids (TDS), electrical conductivity (EC), light intensity, daily light integral (DLI), and nutrient solution/ambient temperature and humidity. To address these challenges, a systematic literature review was conducted aiming to answer research questions regarding the optimal growth parameters for leafy green vegetables and herbs and spices grown in hydroponic systems. The review selected a total of 131 papers related to indoor farming, hydroponics, and aquaponics. The review selected a total of 123 papers related to indoor farming, hydroponics, and aquaponics. The majority of the articles focused on technology description (38.5%), artificial illumination (26.2%), and nutrient solution composition/parameters (13.8%). Additionally, remaining 10.7% articles focused on the application of sensors, slope, environment and economy. This comprehensive review provides valuable information on optimized growth parameters for smart hydroponic systems and explores future prospects and the application of digital technologies in this field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seven auxin-producing endophytic bacterial strains (Azospirillum spp., Methylobacterium symbioticum, Bacillus spp.), and two different combinations of these strains were used to verify their influence on tomato during germination and development in hydroponic conditions where, as a novelty for Canestrino di Lucca cultivar, endophytic bacteria were inoculated. To emphasize the presence of bacterial auxins in roots and stems of seedlings, both in situ staining qualitative assessment and quantitative analysis were carried out. Moreover, hypogeal and epigeal growth of the plantlets were measured, and correlation analyses were conducted to examine the relationship between the amount of indolacetic acid (IAA) produced by the bacterial strains and root and stem parameters. Plantlets treated with microbial inoculants showed a significant increase in the survival rate compared to the control treatment. The best results as IAA producers were from Azospirillum baldaniorum Sp245 and A. brasilense Cd, which also induced significant root growth. On the other hand, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens and B. licheniformis induced the best rates in stem growth. These findings highlight the potential for using endophytic bacterial strains in a hydroponic co-cultivation system that enables inoculating plantlets, at an early stage of growth (5 days old). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Artificial light sources in plant factories offer numerous advantages over traditional plant production. Optimal artificial l ighting systems will provide sufficient light to promote plant growth. Thus, this study aimed to determine different artificial light sources on plant growth, especially on internode length, root length, potassium (K), Calcium (Ca), and magnesium (Mg) contents of green oak lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.). Three artificial light sources were utilized in the plant factory: a fluorescent lamp (FL) typically used in plant factories and two light-emitting diodes (LED): bulb-LED and bar-LED lamps. Alternate periods of 12 h of light and dark were applied to the used factories. The results indicated that the lettuce grown under bulb-LED irradiation exhibited the lowest internode length and highest root length of green oak lettuce, regardless to light intensity and the higher photos ynthetic photon flux density (PPFD) values of bulb-LED at the growing stage. K, Ca, and Mg contents in the lettuce shoot decreased in the order of K > Ca > Mg for all artificial light sources. The highest K, Ca, and Mg contents were 14.77±3.08, 4.77±0.92 and 108.14±9.36 mg/g dried weight (DW) obtained in lettuce grown under FL irradiation. Lower FL light intensity promotes nutrient deficiency, resulting in increased plant uptake. There was no significant difference in nutrient content betwe en plants grown with bulb-LED and bar-LED. The K/Ca and K/Mg mole ratios were lowest in plants grown under FL irradiation. These findings suggest that FL can be used to control lettuce nutrient levels, whereas bulb-LED can be used to control lettuce growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the procedures that helps remove pharmaceuticals (Phs) from wastewater in Constructed Wetlands (CWs) is phytoremediation. Using Ruellia simplex, the main emphasis of this study is on the function of plants and substrates in the removal mechanism independently from aqueous solution. Even in an aqueous solution containing high concentrations of antibiotics, the plant could thrive, and lighting further promoted growth. For the removal of amoxicillin (AMX) and ciprofloxacin (CIP) at a concentration of 25 mg/L, six reactors are used: hydroponic planted reactors, sand rectors, chicken manure - wood shavings (CM-WS) rectors, rhizobacterial-inoculated unplanted reactors, unplanted control reactors, and unplanted dark control reactors to study the roles of phytoremediation, adsorption, biodegradation, photodegradation and hydrolysis process in reduction of AMX and CIP. Additionally, the plant's weight is determined for each sample collected and compared to the initial weight of the experiment to monitor plant growth. The possible fates of AMX and CIP were explored using hydroponic tests, whereby 43%, 26% and 19%, respectively, of the total removal of AMX had been accounted for by plant uptake, adsorption by CM-WS and biodegradation after 21 days of exposure, also these process contributed well in CIP removal, where the proportions were 39%, 32% and 18%, respectively of the total CIP reduction at the same intervals.

Hydroponics is a soilless farming technique that has emerged as a sustainable alternative. However, new technologies such as Industry 4.0, the internet of things (IoT), and artificial intelligence are needed to keep up with issues related to economics, automation, and social challenges in hydroponics farming. One significant issue is optimizing growth parameters to identify the best conditions for growing fruits and vegetables. These parameters include pH, total dissolved solids (TDS), electrical conductivity (EC), light intensity, daily light integral (DLI), and nutrient solution/ambient temperature and humidity. To address these challenges, a systematic literature review was conducted aiming to answer research questions regarding the optimal growth parameters for leafy green vegetables and herbs and spices grown in hydroponic systems. The review selected a total of 131 papers related to indoor farming, hydroponics, and aquaponics. The review selected a total of 123 papers related to indoor farming, hydroponics, and aquaponics. The majority of the articles focused on technology description (38.5%), artificial illumination (26.2%), and nutrient solution composition/parameters (13.8%). Additionally, remaining 10.7% articles focused on the application of sensors, slope, environment and economy. This comprehensive review provides valuable information on optimized growth parameters for smart hydroponic systems and explores future prospects and the application of digital technologies in this field.

Agriculture plays a very important role in the lives of Indonesian people. With technological advances and the increasing limitation of agricultural land, the patterns of matching crops in societies have changed. Innovations have been implemented, one of which is the use of technology such as hydroponic systems. One of the main factors that influence the success of hydroponic methods is temperature and humidity. The research aims to design and develop an autonomic control system that uses Fuzzy Logic to regulate the temperature and moisture of hydroponic plants, as well as to design the control of the nutrition and pH supply of hydrogen plants. Hydroponics plant control systems are implemented using microcontrollers and DHT22, TDS sensors, and pH sensors. In addition, an Android-based interface has been developed to monitor and control the system remotely via an internet connection. In this study the accuracy of the TDS sensor is 96.5%, the pH sensor was 98.19%, and the precision of the Fuzzy logic system at temperature and humidity is 100%

Abstract This study was conducted to determine the heterogeneity of the quantitative and qualitative properties of fodder growth in cultivated hydroponic wheat fodder (HWF) in the growth tray area and to evaluate the impact on the environment. HWF was grown using nutrient film technique. Yield productivity (YP) of HWF in the growth tray area was divided into four characteristic zones (A, B, C, and D). The most fertile zone A accounted for only 22.3 ± 4.2% of the entire growth tray area, while zone B accounted for 44.7 ± 4.0%. Zones C and D, which accounted for 28.0 ± 1.3% and 5.0 ± 0.3% area, respectively, pose various problems for forage production, i.e., they negatively impact the quantity and quality of HWF, as well as the environment. If all areas in the growth tray support the highest fodder YP (zones A and B), then one kg of dry wheat grains will yield about 6–7 kg of HWF (consisting of 10.7–12.4% dry matter, 17.3–17.5% crude protein, 1.8–2.3% starch, 13.1–14.4% crude fiber, and 4.5–4.6% ether extract). Results of life cycle assessment show that HWF with YPs of 3–5 kg from one kg of dry grains (zones C and D) has the most adverse impact on the environment (150 and 220 kg CO2eq t−1). Under optimum conditions (zone A), CO2eq varied from 94 to 115 kg CO2eq t−1 of feed. Environmentally, HWF production had the most impact on marine aquatic ecotoxicity, abiotic depletion, global warming potential, and freshwater aquatic ecotoxicity.

Abstract Background Cydnoseius negevi (Swirski and Amitai) (Acari: Phytoseiidae) is a promising bio-agent in the Mediterranean region. It attacks a wide range of pest species. Two fundamental questions have been raised when C. negevi was a promising candidate for biological control applications in a hydroponic system. This study was carried out to answer the raised questions: (1) how long a predatory female takes to attack its prey in a non-choice biological control application? and (2) what do the predatory females prefer when offered a multiple choice (free-choice) of pest preys?, to understand the potentialities of C. negevi attacking behaviour. Results Two sets of experiments were conducted for 240 min under laboratory conditions of 27 ± 2 °C, 60 ± 5% RH, and 18:6h L:D photoperiod. The tested prey species were Tetranychus urticae Koch, Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius), Frankliniella occidentalis (Pergande), Parlatoria ziziphi (Lucas), and Icerya aegyptiaca (Douglas). Non-choice experiments tested the time (min) needed to the 24 h starved female to attack its prey. The free-choice experiments tested the female’ choices and the time recorded for each female during the full experimental time. Significant differences were recorded in both sets at confidence level of 95%. The spider mite T. urticae recorded the shortest predatory female’s response in both non- and free-choice sets. On the contrary, the insect I. aegyptiaca had the least female’s choice in both sets of experiment. Conclusion The present study discussed the behavioural categories of C. negevi. The female responses showed a list of priorities to the tested herbivore species. Such behavioural simulation is considerable for the future pest control applications to predict the generalist predator’s preferences among a wide range of multiple herbivore species.

The spatial distribution and diversity of plant pathogens and other microbial communities in commercial operations is the first step in identifying critical control points where crops may be at risk of disease. Our objective was to characterize the spatial variation of oomycete pathogens and bacteria across the production system of a greenhouse producing lettuce in hydroponics. We utilized DNA metabarcoding to identify oomycetes and 16S rRNA gene sequencing of bacteria from different production stages and sample types (surfaces, solutions, and roots) collected from a commercial greenhouse producing lettuce in deepwater culture. Pythium was the genus with the highest relative abundance (41 to 100%) across all production stages. P. dissotocum was detected in most samples, except for sowing and seedling surfaces and municipal water, where P. myriotylum was the most abundant species. Oomycete communities showed distinct clustering by production stages and sample types, where sowing and seedling surfaces and municipal water were separated from the rest. Proteobacteria had the highest relative abundance in the surfaces at the sowing (98%) and seedling (85%) stages. Municipal water was the only sample with less than 20% relative abundance of Proteobacteria and dominated by Cyanobacteria. Negative correlations between Pythium and 13 bacteria genera point to potential antagonists in hydroponics that should be further studied. Mapping the spatial variation of oomycetes and bacterial communities in a commercial greenhouse indicates that production stage and sample type influence microbial composition and potentially the risk to disease.

The list of standard abbreviations for JDS is available at adsa.org/jds-abbreviations-24. Nonstandard abbreviations are available in the Notes. Finite natural resources, rising human population, and climate change pose challenges to traditional crop production. Hydroponically grown fodder (i.e., sprouted grains) can be an alternative feed source for dairy cows; however, only sprouted barley has been investigated in low-producing cows. We aimed to evaluate the effect of replacing conventional concentrates with sprouted barley or wheat, grown using hydroponics, on milk production, nutrient digestibility, and milk fatty acid profile in high-producing cows. Twenty-four multiparous Holstein cows (3.25 ± 1.33 lactations; 102 ± 23 DIM; 49 ± 4 kg/d of milk) were used in a replicated 3 × 3 Latin square design with 21-d experimental periods. Following a 2-wk covariate period, cows were fed 1 of 3 experimental diets: a TMR (1) without sprouted grains (control), or with (2) 10% sprouted barley, or (3) 10% sprouted wheat on a DM basis. Experimental diets were formulated to be isoenergetic and isonitrogenous with sprouted grains that replaced ground corn, soybean meal, canola meal, and dextrose. Sprouted grains were grown using a semi-automatic hydroponic system and harvested after 6 d of growth. Data and sample collection occurred during the last 3 d of the covariate and experimental periods. Wide ranges were observed for the DM percent of sprouted grains (12.1%–22.9% and 13.3%–25.7% for barley and wheat, respectively) and the ratio of sprouted fodder to seed (0.67–1.07 for both barley and wheat). Feeding sprouted grains did not modify the yield of milk or ECM; however, DMI were lower for barley, relative to control. Feed efficiencies were greater for barley than for control (1.49 ± 0.03 vs. 1.43 ± 0.03 for milk yield/DMI; 1.85 ± 0.03 vs. 1.73 ± 0.04 for ECM/DMI). Yields and concentrations of milk components (i.e., fat, true protein, and lactose) were not affected by treatment. Milk urea N concentrations were greater for wheat, relative to control or barley. Body weight (752 ± 3 vs. 742 ± 3 kg) and BW gains (6.53 ± 2.99 vs. −9.33 ± 2.91 kg/21 d) were higher for wheat than for control. Apparent total-tract digestibility of organic matter was greater for wheat relative to barley. Digestibilities of NDF and starch were higher for wheat and control, relative to barley, and CP digestibility was greater for wheat, relative to barley and control. Rumination and physical activity were not affected by treatment. In summary, replacing traditional concentrates with sprouted grains grown using hydroponics improved milk production efficiency (barley sprouts) or enhanced body weight gain (wheat sprouts). A life-cycle assessment needs to be conducted to determine the net effect of this feeding strategy for the dairy industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cydnoseius negevi (Swirski and Amitai) (Acari: Phytoseiidae) is a promising bio-agent in the Mediterranean region. It attacks a wide range of pest species. Two fundamental questions have been raised when C. negevi was a promising candidate for biological control applications in a hydroponic system. This study was carried out to answer the raised questions: (1) how long a predatory female takes to attack its prey in a non-choice biological control application? and (2) what do the predatory females prefer when offered a multiple choice (free-choice) of pest preys?, to understand the potentialities of C. negevi attacking behaviour. Results: Two sets of experiments were conducted for 240 min under laboratory conditions of 27 ± 2 °C, 60 ± 5% RH, and 18:6h L:D photoperiod. The tested prey species were Tetranychus urticae Koch, Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius), Frankliniella occidentalis (Pergande), Parlatoria ziziphi (Lucas), and Icerya aegyptiaca (Douglas). Non-choice experiments tested the time (min) needed to the 24 h starved female to attack its prey. The free-choice experiments tested the female' choices and the time recorded for each female during the full experimental time. Significant differences were recorded in both sets at confidence level of 95%. The spider mite T. urticae recorded the shortest predatory female's response in both non- and free-choice sets. On the contrary, the insect I. aegyptiaca had the least female's choice in both sets of experiment. Conclusion: The present study discussed the behavioural categories of C. negevi. The female responses showed a list of priorities to the tested herbivore species. Such behavioural simulation is considerable for the future pest control applications to predict the generalist predator's preferences among a wide range of multiple herbivore species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to widespread selenium deficiency in food the aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a new Se(II)-containing organic chemical compound 2-iminoselenazolidin-4-ones (ISeA) in the form of a nanoscale associate (1–5 nm) solution for Swiss chard and komatsuna plants biofortification. Application of the chosen substance as a foliar treatment (2 mg·L−1) and as an additive to a hydroponic nutrient solution (10 mg·L−1) was performed. Both cultures had a high level of Se absorption, distribution and accumulation in leaves two or more times greater than in petioles. Se content in chard petioles (15 mg·L−1) when applying ISeA as a component of the nutrient solution exceeded the accumulation of Se during foliar treatment (9.6 mg·L−1) and the same trend in the komatsuna leaves was observed. When applying ISeA to the nutrient solution, an increase in komatsuna and chard biomass was seen at 36 and 68% and for leaf treatment by 21 and 45%, respectively. For komatsuna and chard an increase in the ratio of dry to fresh weight was also observed to be 27 and 26%, and for foliar treatment—0 and 16 % , respectively. Treatments led to increase in chard plants height (7–17%), enlargement of leaves (19–42%), a rise in photosynthetic pigments (20–60%) and anthocyanin (2.9 and 2.2 times) concentration, and for komatsuna—the multiplication of leaves number ( 28 % ) and their surface area (27–29%) as well as a rise in the concentration of anthocyanin (1.0 and 1.6 times) with foliar treatment and nutrient solution enrichment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An experiment was performed to evaluate the effect of Trichoderma harzianum MVT801 combined with different ratios of nutrient solution (NR) (25%, 50%, and 100%) on the growth and physiological traits of Lactuca sativa "Lollo Rosso" plants cultivated in floating systems. Inoculation of lettuce plants with T. harzianum MVT801 (T1) in a floating system improves biometric properties, photosynthetic parameters, and nutrient uptake compared with uninoculated treatment (T0). The results clearly showed that in T1, despite a 50% reduction in the ratio of nutrient solution, no significant difference was observed in the growth and photosynthesis characteristics and nutrient uptake in L. sativa "Lollo Rosso" leaves compared with a complete nutrient solution treatment (100%), which is one of the notable results of this study. In this regard, the highest yield was observed in T1NR50 (inoculated with fungi and 50% of the nutrient solution) and T1NR100 (inoculated with fungi and complete nutrient solution) treatments. Also, the highest concentrations of phosphorus and potassium in "Lollo Rosso" leaves were observed in T1NR50 and T1NR100 treatments. Accordingly, the use of T. harzianum in floating lettuce cultivation could be recommended to increase crop productivity and reduce the use of chemical fertilizers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Light intensity significantly influences plant growth in hydroponic green fodder systems, yet research exploring the growth dynamics and nutrient accumulation in hydroponically grown barley under various light conditions has been limited. This study investigated the impact of different light intensities—0, 100, 200, and 300 μmol/m2/s—on the nutritional composition and quality of hydroponic barley fodder. Assessments were made on biomass production, physiological responses including photosynthetic parameters, and nutritional components such as essential amino acids five days post-treatment. The findings indicated that increasing light intensity boosted photosynthetic activity, expanded leaf area, enhanced root length, and promoted biomass accumulation. However, the highest intensity tested, 300 μmol/m2/s, led to significant chlorophyll degradation, increased water loss, and induced oxidative stress, adversely affecting fodder quality and reducing essential amino acids. In contrast, an intensity of 200 μmol/m2/s was identified as optimal for promoting robust barley growth through principal component analysis. This optimal setting supported vigorous growth and ensured the production of nutrient-rich, high-quality fodder, providing a basis for scaling up production efficiently. This research offers crucial insights into optimizing light conditions to maximize both the yield and nutritional quality of hydroponically grown barley fodder, presenting a significant step forward in enhancing hydroponic farming practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Banyuwangi Regency is a popular tourist location in East Java Province. However, after the beginning of the Covid-19 epidemic in early 2020, visitor visitation have significantly declined. This causes a decline in people's economic activity. One of the affected communities was Kemiri in the Singojuruh sub-district, where many young people lost their jobs. Objective: To empower the Karang Taruna youth community in Kemiri village to be entrepreneurs by planting a variety of vegetables such as pakcoi, lettuce, red spinach, and others using the NFT (nutrient film technique) hydroponic system method on unproductive land. Method: This community service activity is divided into five activities, namely training on vegetable plant cultivation using NFT hydroponic system techniques, making green house, making hydroponic installation, planting and maintaining of packcoi and red spinach, harvesting and packaging. Results: After training in basic hydroponic techniques, how to seed seeds and making AB mix nutrients, Karang Taruna youth can practice growing pakcoi and red spinach hydroponically in the green house. At the age of four weeks, after the seedlings are transferred into the hydroponic system, pakcoi vegetables and red spinach can be harvested and ready for sale. Success indicators are measured using a pre-post test to determine mitra's knowledge regarding hydroponic cultivation techniques. Conclusion: Mitra understanding and practicing hydroponic vegetable cultivation techniques. In addition, the youth of Karang Taruna Desa Kemiri, Kab. Banyuwangi, can supplement their income by selling produced veggies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydroponic lettuce cultivation using AB-mix nutrients has several weaknesses, one of which is that the price of nutrients is relatively expensive and difficult to obtain in small towns. Rice bran liquid organic fertilizer (LOF) has the potential to be a substitute or supplementary nutrient in hydroponic cultivation; it has a fairly high nitrogen content (2.08%). This research aims to examine the effect of rice bran POC on the yield of lettuce plants cultivated hydroponically. The research used a non-factorial Randomized Group Design (RGD), consisting of 3 treatments, namely P1 (rice bran LOF 5 ml/l), P2 (AB-mix 1500 ppm), and P3 (AB-mix 1500 ppm + rice bran LOF 5 ml/l), which were repeated 10 times to obtain 30 experimental units. The observation variables in this research were plant height, number of leaves, wet weight, and dry weight of harvest. Data analysis was carried out using analysis of variance; if there was a real effect, a 5% BNT test was carried out. The results of the research showed that rice bran POC (5 ml/l) was not able to be used as the sole nutrient in hydroponic lettuce cultivation, AB-mix 1500 ppm nutrition treatment + 5 ml/l rice bran LOF gave the best and highest results in plant height, number of leaves, wet weight, and lettuce dry weight. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Soilless cultivation systems (SCS) are farming cultivation methods using inert or organic substrate in place of soil. These systems are considered promising from an environmental sustainability perspective, as they can reduce the amount of water, fertilizers, and other substances harmful to the environment. The aim of this study is to consolidate the current knowledge of environmental impact assessment in the soilless systems context and shed light on the methodological choices regarding the LCA method implementation. Methods: A three-step research method was employed, starting with the identification of the nomenclature of SCS via an overview of the literature, followed by a review of reviews where Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) has been identified as the most used method to assess the environmental performance of a system. Such a preliminary step served for the third step, which allowed the creation of a search query combining the various soilless techniques and LCA. From Scopus and Web of Science, 56 articles were selected, and methodological data was extracted according to FLAVIA-LCT framework. Data was then analyzed using Excel and VOSviewer. Systematic analysis was preceded by a bibliometric and network analysis, as well as by a technical analysis of the systems found in the selected articles. Results and discussion: Drip irrigation in conjunction with solid substrates, mostly perlite, is the most common SCS method, while tomatoes and lettuce are the most studied crop species. Most systems set in a rural environment had commercial orientations, while urban systems had mostly experimental ones. Most of the assessed systems are set in Spain. Attributional LCA models are most prevalent, with mass-related functional units (FUs) and cradle-to-farm gate system boundaries. The production phase is the most impactful, with electricity, fertilizers, and structure materials being the main contributors. Conclusions: LCA studies displayed common methodological choices concerning attributional model, FUs, and system boundaries, reflecting a main focus on production. Consequential approaches were limitedly applied, and, in these cases, assumptions were often made for transportation and material lifespan due to data unavailability. Sensitivity analyses were only performed by half of the selected articles. Finally, the findings highlight that attention should be given to alternative crop species, innovative techniques, and substrates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Controlled environment agriculture (CEA), or indoor agriculture, encompasses non-traditional farming methods that occur inside climate-controlled structures (e.g., greenhouses, warehouses, high tunnels) allowing for year-round production of fresh produce such as leaf lettuce. However, recent outbreaks and recalls associated with hydroponically grown lettuce contaminated with human pathogens have raised concerns. Few studies exist on the food safety risks during hydroponic cultivation of leaf lettuce; thus, it is important to identify contributing risk factors and potential mitigation strategies to prevent foodborne transmission via hydroponically grown produce. In this study, the concentration of infectious Tulane virus (TV), a human norovirus surrogate, in hydroponic nutrient solution at 15 °C, 25 °C, 30 °C, and 37 °C was determined over a duration of 21 days to mimic the time from seedling to mature lettuce. The mean log PFU reduction for TV was 0.86, 1.80, 2.87, and ≥ 3.77 log10 at 15 °C, 25 °C, 30 °C, and 37 °C, respectively, at the end of the 21-day period. Similarly, average decimal reduction values (D-values) of TV at 15 °C, 25 °C, 30 °C, and 37 °C were 48.0, 11.3, 8.57, and 7.02 days, respectively. This study aids in the (i) identification of possible food safety risks associated with hydroponic systems specifically related to nutrient solution temperature and (ii) generation of data to perform risk assessments within CEA leaf lettuce operations to inform risk management strategies for the reduction of foodborne outbreaks, fresh produce recalls, and economic losses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Good agricultural practices (GAP) are guidelines designed to ensure the production of high-quality agricultural products that meet specified standards while optimizing resource use. This study aimed to examine the challenges and success factors in implementing a holistic system of GAP in hydroponic vegetable business management and to enhance the efficiency of Thailand’s policies on safe agricultural standards. In this study, a qualitative research methodology was used, using in-depth interviews, semi-structured interviews, and observations with 36 intermediaries and consumers in Thailand. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics. The study revealed that key challenges to successful GAP implementation include unsupportive government policies and a lack of in-depth knowledge among farmers on how to effectively apply GAP principles. For successful implementation, it is crucial that farmers who lead these efforts thoroughly understand the methods and prioritize safe and proper farming practices. This knowledge can then be leveraged to prepare and educate farmers, producers, and entrepreneurs to produce high-quality agricultural products. GAP for crops include policies, benchmarks, and audit processes that adhere to international standards, providing a framework for controlling and promoting product quality throughout the agricultural production process, including post-certification maintenance. The study suggests that cooperation across all relevant sectors, from upstream to downstream, is essential for the successful implementation of GAP. Such collaboration would significantly enhance the quality and safety of Thailand’s agricultural standards.

In the United States, the annual revenue attributable to tomato production is $1 billion. However, tomato production can cause negative environmental impacts, such as water pollution, often in the form of eutrophication-causing nutrient pollution. Hydroponic production can decrease excess nutrient leaching; however, optimization of nutrient management and cultivar choices could further decrease excess nutrient discharges. The objectives of this study were as follows: to evaluate and compare the responses of tomato growth characteristics, yield, and yield components to two nutrient management regimes (varying nutrient solution concentrations by growth stage and the use of a constant nutrient solution concentration from transplant to termination), and to analyze the effects of growth habits among six cultivars (Big Beef, Cherokee Purple, Heatmaster, Legend, Mountain Fresh Plus, and Tropic) on tomato yield and yield-correlated morphological characteristics. The nutrient management strategies were applied to tomato plants, and data regarding yield and related morphological characteristics were obtained. Data were analyzed using SAS PROC GLM. An analysis revealed no significant difference in the total fruit weight/plant between nutrient management regimes (P = 0.05); however, the mean fruit weight (164.26 g) and diameter (71.70 mm) were significantly greater (P < 0.0001) for plants that received the constant concentration nutrient regime. Indeterminate plants had a significantly greater (P < 0.0001) mean fruit weight (192.76 g) and mean fruit diameter (76.42 mm). Among cultivars, Big Beef had a significantly greater (P < 0.05) total fruit weight/plant (9.25 kg). Applying a constant nutrient concentration to indeterminate cultivars, particularly Big Beef and Cherokee Purple, improved the factors analyzed and could decrease negative environmental impacts while increasing profits of the producers.

IntroductionUrea is one of the nitrogen chemical fertilizers for vegetable production in soil. But it is seldom used in soilless cultures. Leafy vegetables such as Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) contain high levels of nitrate and attempts have been made to reduce the nitrate concentration in this crop for human consumption. Using reduced forms of nitrogen, i.e. urea, is one of the applied strategies for reducing nitrate accumulation in lettuce. Little information is available concerning urea as a source of nitrogen for production of leafy vegetables such as lettuce in soilless culture. This experiment was conducted to investigate the effect of different ratios of urea:nitrate in nutrient solution on the growth indices, yield and nitrate accumulation of red French lettuce (Lactuca sativa L. cv. Lolla Rossa) in soilless culture. Materials and MethodsA hydroponic experiment using completely randomized design was carried out with seven ratios of urea:nitrate in nutrient solution and four replications in the research greenhouse of Shahrekord University. Urea:nitrate ratios in nutrient solution were: 0:100, 10:90, 20:80, 30:70, 40:60, 50:50 and 60:40. Lettuce seedlings were grown in 2 L plastic pots (one plant per pot) containing mixture of cocopeat + perlite at the ratio of 2:1 (v/v) and were manually fertigated with nutrient solutions on a daily basis. Four weeks after transplanting, lettuce plants were harvested and fresh weights of shoot and root were determined. Plant growth indices including of plant height, plant diameter, leaf length, leaf width, leaf number, leaf greenness index and leaf brix level were measured. After measuring the growth indices, the leaves were grouped separately according to leaf numbers 1-10=outer leaves, >11= inner leaves. The samples were dried in an oven at 60 °C and were ground. Nitrate concentrations in samples were determined calorimetrically using a spectrophotometer at a wavelength of 410 nm. Analysis of variance was performed using SAS software version 9.4. Means comparison was conducted using least significant difference test at 0.05 probability level. Results and DiscussionThe results indicated that application of different ratios of urea to nitrate in nutrient solution had not significant effect on the lettuce growth indices including of plant diameter, leaf length, leaf width, leaf number, leaf greenness index and leaf brix level in comparison with 0:100 of urea:nitrate ratio. Also, root and shoot fresh weights were not affected by urea:nitrate ratio in nutrient solution. The greatest quantity of shoot fresh weight (141 g per plant) was obtained with a 50:50 urea:nitrate ratio. However, this was not significantly different from the shoot fresh weight (125 g per plant) observed when urea was not included in the nutrient solution. Shoot nitrogen concentration (except for plants nourished with a 50:50 urea:nitrate ratio) was not affected by increasing the urea:nitrate ratio in the nutrient solution. The results revealed that application of urea in nutrient solution effectively provided the nitrogen requirement of lettuce. This indicates that lettuce plants can efficiently hydrolyze urea and use it efficiently as a nitrogen source. Application of urea in the nutrient solution led to significant decrease in the nitrate concentration of lettuce root (P< 0.05). Moreover, increasing urea:nitrate ratio in nutrient solution resulted in significant decrease of the nitrate concentration of outer leaves, inner leaves and all leaves of lettuce (P< 0.01). The highest and lowest nitrate concentration in inner, outer and all leaves of lettuce were obtained in plants nourished with 0:100 and 50:50 urea:nitrate ratio in nutrient solution, respectively. Application of urea:nitrate ratio of 50:50 led to the meaningful decrease of nitrate concentration in root (43%), outer leaves (41%), inner leaves (44%) and all leaves (43%) of lettuce in comparison with 0:100 of urea:nitrate ratio. Urea had a repressive effect on nitrate influx and decreased its uptake by plants. Also, after urea uptake by plant root, it is first degraded by cytosolic ureases and then ammonium is incorporated via the GS-GOGAT (Glutamine Synthetase- Glutamine α-OxoGlutarate Amino Transferaze) cycle. Therefore, application of urea in nutrient solution can lead to the reduction of nitrate accumulation in plants. ConclusionBased on the shoot fresh weight and nitrate concentration in lettuce leaves, replacing 50% of nitrate in nutrient solution with urea is recommended for red French lettuce production in hydroponic culture under the conditions of the present study. Compared to other nitrogen fertilizers, urea has a lower price and its application in nutrient solution is useful in reducing production costs.

Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the effects of vermicompost leachate on the growth and water use of tomatoes in an unequal distribution of salinity in a hydroponic system. Method: Roots of tomato seedlings were separated into approximately two equal parts, each half was grown in a media culture part containing a 3-liter perlite and cocopeat mixture of a separated two-part box. The nutrient solution, irrigation water, and vermicompost leachate were applied for the irrigation of treatments according to the statistical design. Results: The results showed that the treatment in which the nutrient solution was used for one side of root media culture and the leachate with the salinity of 4 dS/m on the other side had an acceptable amount of dry and fresh weight and increased crop per drop. Conclusion: The results showed that the unequal distribution of salinity in the root media culture is an applicable technique for using vermicompost leachate although the success of this system is strongly dependent on the leachate correction.

Effluents generated in aquaculture could contribute to increased risk of environmental contamination. Aquaponic could facilitate the resolution of this problem by transforming those potential pollutants into nutrients for plants, providing an extra vegetable production in a circular economy framework. Highly profitable vegetables such as pitaya (Hylocereus spp.) could improve the economic viability of these farms, but little is known about its performance in aquaponic systems. Rooting and vegetative growth of 12 cuttings of white-fleshed pitaya (Hylocereus undatus) and red-fleshed pitaya (Hylocereus hybridum) were evaluated over a period of six months in two aquaponic systems rearing tilapia with different hydroponic subsystems (Nutrient Film Technique, NFT and Media Bed, MB). A control group of hydroponic culture using substrate filled pots was used for comparison. Water quality and environmental parameters were also measured to evaluate their influence on plant development. Hylocereus hybridum showed higher vegetative growth, and earlier shoot emission in combination with the control system, followed by the NFT and finally the MB. In relation to root growth, Hylocereus undatus showed best results in combination with the substrate system. Best results for precocity in root emission, evaluated in the NFT system, were obtained for Hylocereus hybridum. Water quality parameters had no significant effect on plant development, while fish live weight increased in both systems.

To ensure the healthy growth of plants in hydroponics, it is crucial to determine the amount of nutrient solution that peristaltic pumps inject per unit time under various hydraulic conditions. The aim of this study is to test the effect of peristaltic pumps, suction heads and nutrient solutions on the flow-rate of the peristaltic pump. The tests of the flow-rate were conducted as aging and main test. Treatments consisted of 3 pumps (PP1, PP2 and PP3), 2 suction heads (30 (SH30) and 60 cm (SH60)) and 5 solutions (tap water (S1), stock A (S2), stock B (S3), nitric acid (HNO3) (S4) and potassium hydroxide (KOH) (S5)). In both tests, the volume of liquid pumped by the pumps for 2 minutes was determined and the volume-time relationship was utilized to calculate flow-rates. Aging tests showed that the new peristaltic pumps should be used in nutrition dosing after aging number was equal and greater than 5. All treatments had significant effect (p<0.01) on flow-rates. The mean flow-rates of pumps (PP1, PP2 and PP3) were found to be 102.0, 103.4 and 103.7 mL min-1, respectively. The flow-rates of PP2 and PP3 are 1.36% and 1.67% greater than that’s of PP1, and they could vary according to the pumps. Average flow rates for SH30 and SH60 were found as 103.6 and 102.5 mL min-1, and flow rate decreased by 1.1% when the suction head increased from 30 to 60cm. The highest average flow-rate was obtained in tap water (S1=104.7 mL min-1 ), while the lowest average flow rate (S5=101.2 mL min-1 ) was found for Stock B. Flow rates of the S1, S2, S4 and S5 compared with the lowest flow-rate of solution (S3=101.2 mL min-1 ) were found to be higher as 3.51%, 1.78%, 1.1% and 2.66%, respectively. The highest flow-rates changed between S1-S3, and the lowest ones between S4- S5. As the specific weights of the solutions decreased, the flow-rates of the pumps increased. The pumps should be used after their flow-rates are determined according to suction head, peristaltic pumps and solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IntroductionUrea is one of the nitrogen chemical fertilizers for vegetable production in soil. But it is seldom used in soilless cultures. Leafy vegetables such as Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) contain high levels of nitrate and attempts have been made to reduce the nitrate concentration in this crop for human consumption. Using reduced forms of nitrogen, i.e. urea, is one of the applied strategies for reducing nitrate accumulation in lettuce. Little information is available concerning urea as a source of nitrogen for production of leafy vegetables such as lettuce in soilless culture. This exfaiment was conducted to investigate the effect of different ratios of urea:nitrate in nutrient solution on the growth indices, yield and nitrate accumulation of red French lettuce (Lactuca sativa L. cv. Lolla Rossa) in soilless culture. Materials and MethodsA hydroponic exfaiment using completely randomized design was carried out with seven ratios of urea:nitrate in nutrient solution and four replications in the research greenhouse of Shahrekord University. Urea:nitrate ratios in nutrient solution were: 0:100, 10:90, 20:80, 30:70, 40:60, 50:50 and 60:40. Lettuce seedlings were grown in 2 L plastic pots (one plant fa pot) containing mixture of cocopeat + falite at the ratio of 2:1 (v/v) and were manually fertigated with nutrient solutions on a daily basis. Four weeks after transplanting, lettuce plants were harvested and fresh weights of shoot and root were determined. Plant growth indices including of plant height, plant diameter, leaf lenth, leaf width, leaf number, leaf greenness index and leaf brix level were measured. After measuring the growth indices, the leaves were grouped separately according to leaf numbers 1-10=outer leaves, >11= inner leaves. The samples were dried in an oven at 60 °C and were ground. Nitrate concentrations in samples were determined calorimetrically using a spectrophotometer at a wavelenth of 410 nm. Analysis of variance was faformed using SAS software version 9.4. Means comparison was conducted using least significant difference test at 0.05 probability level. Results and DiscussionThe results indicated that application of different ratios of urea to nitrate in nutrient solution had not significant effect on the lettuce growth indices including of plant diameter, leaf lenth, leaf width, leaf number, leaf greenness index and leaf brix level in comparison with 0:100 of urea:nitrate ratio. Also, root and shoot fresh weights were not affected by urea:nitrate ratio in nutrient solution. The greatest quantity of shoot fresh weight (141 g fa plant) was obtained with a 50:50 urea:nitrate ratio. However, this was not significantly different from the shoot fresh weight (125 g fa plant) observed when urea was not included in the nutrient solution. Shoot nitrogen concentration (except for plants nourished with a 50:50 urea:nitrate ratio) was not affected by increasing the urea:nitrate ratio in the nutrient solution. The results revealed that application of urea in nutrient solution effectively provided the nitrogen requirement of lettuce. This indicates that lettuce plants can efficiently hydrolyze urea and use it efficiently as a nitrogen source. Application of urea in the nutrient solution led to significant decrease in the nitrate concentration of lettuce root (P< 0.05). Moreover, increasing urea:nitrate ratio in nutrient solution resulted in significant decrease of the nitrate concentration of outer leaves, inner leaves and all leaves of lettuce (P< 0.01). The highest and lowest nitrate concentration in inner, outer and all leaves of lettuce were obtained in plants nourished with 0:100 and 50:50 urea:nitrate ratio in nutrient solution, respectively. Application of urea:nitrate ratio of 50:50 led to the meaningful decrease of nitrate concentration in root (43%), outer leaves (41%), inner leaves (44%) and all leaves (43%) of lettuce in comparison with 0:100 of urea:nitrate ratio. Urea had a repressive effect on nitrate influx and decreased its uptake by plants. Also, after urea uptake by plant root, it is first degraded by cytosolic ureases and then ammonium is incorporated via the GS-GOGAT (Glutamine Synthetase- Glutamine α-OxoGlutarate Amino Transferaze) cycle. Therefore, application of urea in nutrient solution can lead to the reduction of nitrate accumulation in plants. ConclusionBased on the shoot fresh weight and nitrate concentration in lettuce leaves, replacing 50% of nitrate in nutrient solution with urea is recommended for red French lettuce production in hydroponic culture under the conditions of the present study. Compared to other nitrogen fertilizers, urea has a lower price and its application in nutrient solution is useful in reducing production costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Hydroponic cultivation of fresh produce is gaining popularity worldwide, but few studies have provided a comparative assessment of hydroponic and conventional soil-based vegetables. In this study, we analyzed a series of hazardous chemicals, including 120 pesticides, 18 phthalates (PAEs), and 2 heavy metals (lead and cadmium) in four vegetable commodities (lettuces, celeries, tomatoes, and cucumbers) from hydroponic and conventional soil-based cultivation. Our study showed that at least one pesticide was present in 84% of the conventionally grown samples, whereas only 30% of the hydroponic samples contained detectable pesticide residues. Regarding the total PAE concentrations, there was no significant difference between conventional and hydroponic vegetables. The lead and cadmium residues in conventionally cultivated vegetables were significantly higher than in those produced from hydroponic cultivation. Lead is the primary heavy metal pollutant across all vegetable samples. The hazard index (HI) values of the hydroponic and conventional vegetables were 0.22 and 0.64, respectively. Since both values are below one, the exposure to these hazardous chemicals through consumption of the studied vegetables may not pose a significant health risk. The HI values also suggested that the health risks of eating hydroponic vegetables are lower than for conventional soil-based vegetables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Consecutive droughts and quantitative and qualitative reduction of surface and underground water resources have caused an increase in greenhouse and hydroponic cultivation for most garden crops, including strawberries, in Iran. On the other hand, most of the inputs of greenhouse crops in Iran are imported. To possibility of replacing vermicompost with peat moss under hydroponic cultivation, an experiment was done in a split plot based on randomized complete blocks design in three replications in Isfahan (Iran) Agricultural and Natural Resources Research Center in 2019. The main treatment was substrate at four levels included different levels of vermicompost (30 and 50%) and peat moss (30 and 50%) in combination with perlite and sub-treatment were Selva and Camarosa cultivars. Results: The results showed that Camarosa cultivar and Selva cultivar in (perlite/ peat moss 50:50) and Selva cultivar in (perlite / vermicompost 70:30) had maximum yield. Leaf number and chlorophyll index were maximum in Camarosa cultivar in peat moss substrates. Strawberry cultivars had the highest root fresh weight, the content of vitamin C and total soluble solids (TSS) in substrates containing vermicompost. Camarosa cultivar in (perlite / peat moss50:50) and Selva cultivar in (perlite /vermicompost 50:50) had maximum root dry weight. Also, the highest number of inflorescences was related to substrates containing peat moss and (perlite /vermicompost 70:30). Maximum amount of fresh and dry weight of shoots were observed in (perlite/ peat moss70:30). Selva cultivar had more inflorescences (16.5%) than Camarosa cultivar and Camarosa cultivar produced more fresh and dry weight of shoots (16.5%, 23.01%) than Selva cultivar. Conclusion: Expriment results highlighted the importance of considering both main and sub-treatments in agricultural research, as they interacted to influence various growth and yield parameters. 50% vermicompost treatment combined with perlite had a positive impact on plant growth and in quality index such as vitamin C content and TSS was highest. while the choice of cultivar affected different aspects of plant development. Selva cultivar was known to be more tolerant to salinity caused by vermicompost. Vermicompost is local and more economical, also salt resistant cultivars are recommended in a controlled (30%) amount of vermicompost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV) is an emerging tobamovirus infecting tomatoes and peppers, resulting in a pandemic in recent years. In addition to its abilities of being seed-borne, transmitted mechanically and overcoming current resistance, we speculated other factors may also contribute to such catastrophic effect on tomato production in a hydroponic greenhouse. The objective of this study was to evaluate whether ToBRFV can be transmissible through recirculating hydroponic systems and, more importantly, search for an effective approach to contain its spread. We not only detected ToBRFV in the runoff water samples collected from three greenhouses but also determined the virus' infectivity through a bioassay. We then conducted a water treatment using cold plasma ozone to assess its efficacy in inactivating ToBRFV. The results showed that, with a high concentration of ToBRFV (inoculum in 1:100 dilution), a prolonged exposure (72 min) to two higher ozone concentrations (0.6 mg/L and 1.0 mg/L) achieved partial effects. With a medium virus concentration (inoculum in 1:1000 dilution), an exposure to ozone for 48 min was sufficient to completely suppress the virus' infectivity. However, with a low virus concentration (inoculum in 1:10,000 dilution), the virus was completely inactivated even with just a short ozone exposure (24 min). Future work will need to confirm the efficacy of the ozone treatment against ToBRFV as well as its impact on tomato plants in a hydroponic greenhouse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, much effort has been devoted to understanding the response of plants to different light properties, largely due to advances in the light-emitting diode (LED) industry. This work studied the effect of different light intensities and qualities on yield or quality of indoor hydroponic spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.). Two trials were carried out at two different times. The intensity assay was carried out with the same type of light (AP673L, Valoya Ltd., Helsinki, Finland) at different luminous intensities (150, 290, and 430 µmol m−2 s−1). In the second trial, four different luminance spectra (Valoya Ltd., Helsinki, Finland) were used (NS12, AP67, AP673L, G2). Then, the fresh and dry weight, nutritional status, and concentration of primary metabolites were determined. Both lights parameters induced changes in vegetative performance and other physiological traits, as well as their quality and nutritional composition (minerals, organic acids, sugars, and amino acids). The increase in light intensity increased Fv'/Fv', fresh weight, leaf area, chlorophyll fluorescence parameters, and potassium concentration. The light intensity effectively controlled nitrate accumulation in an inverse relationship. The effect of the light spectrum on spinach characteristics was not clearly observed when multivariate statistics were applied to the data. No linear relationship was found between the different R/B ratios. This is perhaps due to commercial lights having a complex combination of wavelengths, in addition to the main R/B proportion. Within the overall results, 6 R/B presented the best results for the indoor cultivation of spinach. More studies are needed, since breeding for controlled environments shifts the focus of the desired crop attributes towards rapid growth and harvest quality instead of stress adaptability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the effects of vermicompost leachate on the growth and water use of tomatoes in an unequal distribution of salinity in a hydroponic system. Method: Roots of tomato seedlings were separated into approximately two equal parts, each half was grown in a media culture part containing a 3-liter perlite and cocopeat mixture of a separated two-part box. The nutrient solution, irrigation water, and vermicompost leachate were applied for the irrigation of treatments according to the statistical design. Results: The results showed that the treatment in which the nutrient solution was used for one side of root media culture and the leachate with the salinity of 4 dS/m on the other side had an acceptable amount of dry and fresh weight and increased crop per drop. Conclusion: The results showed that the unequal distribution of salinity in the root media culture is an applicable technique for using vermicompost leachate although the success of this system is strongly dependent on the leachate correction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Green house studying especially for salinity stress needs suitable medium. It is necessary to determine suitable medium in greenhouse studies for screening germplasm, which is easily available, stable in terms of electrical conductivity and cost-effective. Soil, and Perlite are common mediums which are used in green house researches generally, but there weren't enough reports for study hydroponic system for screening sugar beet germplasm. Drought and salinity stress happens at the same time in most regions of Iran and because of similar tolerance mechanisms for these stresses, drought tolerant germplasm could be used in screening for salinity.so the goal of this project was to evaluate different medium especially hydroponic to screening sugar beet drought tolerance genotype in salinity stress. Materials and methods: The project was conducted in two experiments: (a) A factorial experiment based on completely randomized design with four replications was conducted in SBSI research greenhouse. The first factor was three planting media in combination with nutrition solution as follows: 1) loamy soil with about 5% organic matter, 2) perlite with Hoagland solution, 3) hydroponic environment with Hoagland solution. The second factor consisted of two levels of salinity including normal and salinity (16 dS m-1) treatments and the third factor consisted of two sensitive and tolerant genotypes. (b) 17 selected genotypes were investigated in greenhouse with perlite medium under control and salinity 16 dS m-1 in factorial experiment based on completely randomized design with four replications. Different quantitative and qualitative traits such as root. Shoot and total dry weights, K/Na, Soluble carbohydrates, glycine betaine were measured in both experiments and statistical analysis were done by MSTATC and SPSS and mean were compared in Duncan multiple range test at (α=0.05). Results and discussion: Cross effects of medium and salinity were significant on total and shoot dry weights, P, K/Na. Cross effects of medium, salinity and genotypes were significant on most of the traits. Crop yields under salinity stress were less in soil in comparison to other mediums, also salinity had significant effect on soil EC and Na (P≤0.01), soil and perlite were salinized respectively 6 and 2 times in comparison to normal condition. Which shows that soil is not stable medium for salinity study in green house. The highest yield (3.31 g p-1) was obtained from hydroponic. Yields achieved from hydroponic and perlite mediums were similar under salinity, but water consumption was more in hydroponic than perlite. In establishment stage, the total dry weight, soluble carbohydrates, glycine betaine and K/Na ratio were suitable for selection of sugar beet genotypes under salinity stress. According to all measurements, the clustering in establishment stages and Stress Tolerance Index (STI), HSF-91018, HSF-91040, HSF-92870, HSF-92881, HSF-92884, genotypes were selected as tolerant genotypes as controls. Conclusion: Sensitive and tolerant genotypes were not distinguished well in hydroponic medium, which related to its potential and was mentioned in other reports. Hydroponic and perlite were in the same group for different traits especially they became less salty than soil but hydroponic system is not useful for root beet but it would be suitable for forage beet because biomass production is more in this condition. Also, soil is not suitable medium for study salinity researches because it became seven times more salty than normal condition. As a result perlite is the best medium for salinity studies in sugar beet because it becomes less salty, it has low weight and cost and has less side effects on environment. According to all measurements, the clustering in germination and establishment stages and Stress Tolerance Index (STI), HSF-91018, HSF-91040, HSF-92870, HSF-92881, HSF-92884, genotypes were selected as tolerant genotypes as controls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is an opportunity for agriculture to utilize the many different waste streams in our world and capitalize on what would otherwise be viewed as waste products. Hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) is an emerging technology for converting wet biomass to bio-crude oil, while aquaponics is a practice tracing back to indigenous communities around the world; both technologies have the potential to sustainably provide the necessary nutrients for crop growth. Food systems worldwide are actively transitioning to address the many challenges of climate change in a sustainable and efficient manner. Urban agriculture (UA) has the potential to generate localized crops in densely populated areas year-round, but has its challenges, involving high capital requirements, especially for vertical farming and controlled-environment agriculture, and being energy intensive due to artificial lighting and fossil fuel-based synthetic fertilizers. This study investigated the potential for aquaponic and HTL effluents to be used in hydroponic systems through a seed germination screening experiment. Buttercrunch lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) seeds were placed in Ziploc plastic bags on paper towels saturated with the wastewater treatments for 10 days while their total length of growth was routinely measured from the tip of the root to the tip of the cotyledons. The Chicago High School for Agricultural Sciences (CHSAS) aquaponic effluent with a 5.8× times higher nitrate concentration and 4.25× higher ammonia concentration outperformed the Bevier aquaponic effluent and improved any other source water it was combined with. Results also showed that seed germination was not inhibited in the presence of 2–8% solutions of hydrothermal liquefaction aqueous phase (HTL-AP), which performed on par with standard hydroponic fertilizer; solutions of a higher percentage, though, may lead to inhibitory effects in plants, and those of a lower percentage may not provide enough nutrients in the proper forms to sustain plant growth. However, the nutrient analyses revealed that there is still much to investigate regarding the combination of wastewaters to provide a complete, well-rounded, and sustainable source for hydroponic crop production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction and Objective: Green fodder is one of the components that is given special attention when preparing animal rations, due to its palatability and high digestibility. Green fodder in the livestock ration has an effect on maintaining health and improving the productive and reproductive efficiency of livestock, and it may also affect the quality of meat. On the other hand, the main problem in fodder production in the world is the lack of access to sufficient water for the cultivation and growth of fodder. The occurrence of continuous drought in recent years in the country has made the production of green fodder a problem and has pushed opinions towards sustainable methods including the hydroponic method. In this method, agricultural soil is not used for growing plants and feeding is done in a solution that contains all the necessary elements for the plant. There is no report regarding the effect of this food source on the quality of meat of livestock. Since at the time of introducing a feed source for livestock, all its dimensions or in fact its nutritional value must be measured, so this study was conducted with the aim of investigating the effect of consumption of different levels of barley hydroponic fodder on the qualitative and sensory characteristics of goat meat. Material and Methods: This experiment was performed with 28 Fars native male goats that were placed in individual cages in four treatments and seven replicates in a completely random design. The experimental treatments included the replacement of barley hydroponic fodder at three levels of 25, 50 and 75% instead of alfalfa (in terms of dry matter) in the diet and a control treatment without replacement. The ration was balanced based on the standard tables of goat nutrients recommended by Nutrient Requirements Council for Small Ruminants. After 90 days from the start of the experiment, six goats from each treatment were slaughtered and after 24 hours of cooling of the carcass at four ºC, the Longissimus dorsi muscle was separated, divided into smaller pieces and labeled to determine physical, chemical, textural and sensory factors. Chemical tests including measurement of intermuscular fat, protein and ash in meat samples were carried out by standard methods and the amount of dry matter of the samples was measured by placing about three grams of the sample at a temperature of 102 ± 2 ºC for three hours. The Keldahl method was used to measure the total content of volatile nitrogen and a digital pH meter set at 25 ºC was used to measure the pH. Fat oxidation rate in meat samples was determined by malondialdehyde method. Digital imaging and plastic bag methods were used to evaluate color and loss weight after storage of meat samples, respectively. The water holding capacity was determined by centrifuging the sample placed in filter paper for 4 minutes at 1500 rpm and recording the weight and then placing it in the oven at 70 ºC for 24 hours. Loss after cooking was calculated by placing the sample for one hour in a water bath at 90 ºC. Texture factors, including hardness, adhesiveness, cohesiveness, springiness and chewiness were measured by preparing cubic pieces with dimensions of one centimeter from the meat samples and using a texture testing machine. This device was equipped with a steel cylindrical probe with a diameter of six mm and a height of 35 mm. The probe of the device was inserted into the tested sample twice at a speed of two millimeters per second and up to 50% of the probe height, and the results were recorded by the device software. Sensory characteristics of meat samples, including color, smell, tenderness and overall acceptance wad evaluated by a panel group who completed a designed questionnaire based on the hedonic test. One-way analysis of variance was used in order to investigate the physicochemical and tissue characteristics in different treatments. In cases where there was a significant difference between the treatments, the averages were compared with Duncan's test. The results of the panel test were analyzed with the Kruskal -Wallis test. Results: There was not significant difference in the amount of fat (range of 10.08-13.87%), dry matter (range of 29.08-31.55%), ash (range of 0.93-1.15%) and total volatile nitrogen (range of 20.25-25.33 mg/100g) between the control group and experimental treatments. The results showed that the replacement of barley hydroponic fodder by 25% instead of alfalfa in the diet caused a significant increase in the amount of meat protein (P=0.0136) and oxidation (P=0.0497) and a significant decrease (P=0.0132) in loss of cooking compared to control treatment and other experimental treatments. There was no statistically significant difference in the recorded values for the texture evaluation and sensory scores of the meat between the experimental treatments and the control group. The overall acceptance of the meat samples in all the investigated treatments had a score of more than five and were placed in the moderately favorable level. Conclusion: Finally, it can be concluded that the replacement of hydroponic barley fodder instead of alfalfa in the ration of fattening goats up to the level of 75%, did not have negative effects on the chemical, physical and oxidative stability of the meat during storage in the refrigerator or freezer. Also, the use of barley hydroponic fodder in proportions of 25, 50, and 75% (instead of alfalfa and 10, 20, and 30% of dry matter of the ration) did not have adverse effects on the redness, tenderness, and smell of meat. The scores obtained for overall acceptance showed that there was no significant difference in terms of sensory characteristics between the meat of the experimental treatments and the control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vertical farming, including hydroponics, is a growing trend in the agricultural sector due to the increasing demand for food and urbanisation. Thus, hydroponics can save space and achieve faster plant growth compared to traditional farming methods. The concept of smart farming has been applied in this study to improve the ease of control and monitoring of hydroponic systems. The effects of light-emitting diodes (LEDs), light distance, and colour (purple and white) on water spinach growth in a hydroponic system were investigated. Additionally, an Internet of Things (IoT) controller was developed and implemented to facilitate the use of the system in an indoor hydroponic-based environment system. Based on the results, the distance between the LED light of15 cm and the plants and the colour of the LED light (white) can positively impact plant growth in a hydroponic system. Using an IoT controller also allows for continuous monitoring and control of factors that influence plant growth. Hence, this research would catalyse the local smart hydroponic farming system for improved deliverables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]