Influence of growing media and nutrient levels on growth and yield of lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) in hydroponics

Hydroponics has become one of the most popular approaches in modern agricultural production, offering efficient and sustainable crop cultivation. Growing media play a vital role in its success by influencing nutrient availability, water retention, and root development. Understanding their interaction with nutrient levels is crucial to maximizing crop performance under hydroponic systems. This study was conducted at the Hi-Tech Hydroponics Unit, M. S. Swaminathan School of Agriculture, Centurion University of Technology and Management, Odisha, India, during the winter season (October to December), 2024. The study aimed to investigate the impact of growing media and varied nutrient levels on lettuce in hydroponic systems by using Factorial CRD. Growing media consisting of coco coir, oasis cubes, rockwool, and potting mix were used in the present study. Plants were grown using the nutrient film technique (NFT) structure with varied concentrations of Hoagland solution (600 ppm, 800 ppm, 1000 ppm, and 1200 ppm). The Lollo Rosso lettuce was used as a test crop. Data were recorded on plant parameters such as number of leaves, plant height, leaf fresh weight, and yield on a fresh weight basis. Among the nutrient levels, 1200 ppm was the most effective in enhancing the growth attributes of lettuce at harvest, viz., number of leaves (12.5), plant height (16.6 cm), leaf fresh weight (7.4 g/leaf), and yield (93 g/plant). Amongst growing media, the potting mix resulted in better growth performance, followed by coco coin, rockwool, and oasis cubes. The experiment results suggested that growing lettuce in a potting mix combined with a 1200 ppm nutrient solution in hydroponic systems significantly enhanced growth and yield.