Effect of Magnetically Treated Water in Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) Applied in Three Irrigation Regimes Through Drip Fertigation System

Objectives: The study aimed to determine the effect of magnetization of water when applied in different irrigation regimes on the yield of lettuce. It focuses on the evaluation of growth and yield performance of lettuce in terms of plant’s height, number of leaves, leaf area, root length, and total fresh weight using magnetic water treatment (MWT) in drip fertigation system. Methods: Neodymium cuboid magnets (N52 20 mm x 10 mm x 5 mm) were used in the study, where they were positioned parallel on the pipe where water or soluble fertilizer passed through. Three treatments (irrigation regimes) were used: 90% (control), 65%, and 40% soil moisture content. Plants will only be irrigated when the required water content goes over the limit. Findings: Plant height in the 65% soil moisture content treatment (19.29 ± 0.33 cm) was not significantly different (p > 0.01) from the 90% soil mc treatment (20.72 ± 0.32 cm) but was significantly greater (p < 0.01) than the 40% soil mc treatment (16.04 ± 0.82 cm). Leaf area followed a similar trend: 65% soil mc (135.9 ± 7.23 cm²) ≈ 90% soil mc (153.33 ± 3.88 cm²) > 40% soil mc (30.97 ± 5.25 cm²). Number of leaves and fresh weight also showed comparable results, with 65% soil moisture content being similar to 90% and 40%, respectively, however, 90% and 40% varies vary significantly. In terms of root length, no significant difference was observed. Novelty: These results demonstrate that MWT can effectively maintain lettuce growth and yield at 65% soil moisture comparable to well-watered (90%) plants also treated with MWT, suggesting a potential for significant water savings in lettuce production without compromising yield when MWT is applied. This study provides novel insights into the combined effects of MWT and drip fertigation on lettuce under water stress, contributing to the development of sustainable irrigation strategies. Keywords: Lettuce, Magnetic Water Treatment, Drip Fertigation, Irrigation Regimes, Soil Moisture Content