Zeoponic: A Breakthrough Plant Growth Media for Horticulture and Seedling of Plantation.

Background: Plant growth media (PGM) play a crucial role in supporting plant growth and development. The choice of high-quality growing media is essential to provide the necessary nutrients and support for optimal plant growth. This study compares the physical and chemical properties of zeoponic with commercial PGMs. Methods: The study was conducted from September 2021 to March 2022 at the Cikabayan Education greenhouse, Department of Soil Science and Land Resources, Faculty of Agriculture, IPB University. Laboratory analysis of the physical and chemical properties of PGM was conducted with parameters such as pH, electrical conductivity (EC), nutrient content, bulk density, cation exchange capacity (CEC) and base saturation and also plant growth parameters such as plant height, stem diameter, number of leaves, leaf length and leaf width were measured. Result: The results show that zeoponic has a neutral pH, low EC value and high CEC, indicated that the use of zeoponic led to significantly greater plant height, stem diameter, number of leaves, leaf length and leaf width in all types of plants than commercial PGMs. Unique physical and chemical properties in zeoponic create an ideal environment for root development and nutrient absorption. Therefore, zeoponic demonstrates superior performance as a PGM for various plant types, including horticultural crops and seedlings, outperforming commonly available commercial PGM in the market. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]