Sustainable Soilless Cultivation of Leafy Vegetables: Evaluating Nutrient Media Performance in EcoPeat-Grown Amaranthus and Spinach
Keywords:
Soilless cultivation, EcoPeat, Amaranthus, Spinach, Vermiwash, Sustainable agricultureAbstract
Soilless cultivation has emerged as a sustainable alternative to conventional agriculture, particularly in urban and resource-limited environments. The present study evaluates the performance of different nutrient media on the growth of Amaranthus viridis and Spinacia oleracea cultivated in EcoPeat (cocopeat). Four treatments were employed: Control (water), Hydroponic Nutrient Solution (N1), Vermiwash (N2), and Vegetable Wash (N3). Growth parameters including root length, shoot length, and leaf number were recorded over a four-week period. Results indicated that nutrient-supplemented treatments significantly enhanced plant growth compared to control. In Amaranthus, hydroponic solution promoted early root establishment, while vermiwash and vegetable wash enhanced shoot growth and leaf proliferation. Vegetable wash (N3) showed the highest leaf production, indicating superior vegetative growth. In spinach, vermiwash (N2) consistently supported robust shoot development, while hydroponic solution (N1) resulted in better root growth. Organic nutrient media demonstrated sustained performance due to microbial activity and gradual nutrient release. The study highlights that eco-friendly nutrient sources such as vermiwash and vegetable wash can effectively replace chemical nutrient solutions in soilless systems. These findings support sustainable urban agriculture practices, reduced environmental impact, and cost-effective food production. The integration of EcoPeat with organic nutrient media offers a viable approach for enhancing productivity and achieving food security.
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