Effect of Soilless Media on Physio-Chemical Quality Attributes of Strawberry Fruit Under Controlled Conditions

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in exploring alternative cultivation methods that can optimize strawberry growth, increase yield, and improve fruit quality. One such approach is the utilization of soilless media, which offers several advantages over traditional soil-based cultivation. The present study was conducted to assess the impact of soilless growing media on the growth, yield, and quality of the strawberry fruit cultivar. Chandler under controlled conditions in Pakistan. Current research was conducted at the hydroponic unit of MNS-University of Agriculture, Multan, using various soilless growing media mixtures, i.e., Peatmos + pumice (1:1), Peatmos + coconut coir (1:1), Peatmos + Pumice + Coconut coir (1:1:1), and NFT (nutrient film technique). This experiment was conducted under a completely randomized design (CRD) with three replications. Significantly higher fruit diameter (15.37 cm), Juice pH (3.75667), and antioxidants (79.5016%) were recorded in T1 compared to the other compositions of the soilless media. In the T2, significantly higher total soluble solids (8.267 °Brix), titratable acidity (0.884%), and vitamin C (12.449 mg/100 mL juice) were recorded. Significantly higher, POD (8.20 U mg-1 protein), SOD (18.61 U mg-1 protein) and catalase (53.87 U mg-1 protein) enzymes activities were recorded in T3. In the nutrient film technique, significantly higher numbers of leaves (24.9), flowers (17.14), fruits (12.44), and plant fruit weight (155.06g) were recorded. Conclusively, T1 and T2 enhanced the fruit quality, and T3 and T4 enhanced the growth, yield, and enzymatic activity.