INFLUENCE OF SUBSTRATE TYPE ON SEED GERMINATION AND EARLY PLANT DEVELOPMENT UNDER CONTROLLED CONDITIONS

The study investigates the influence of different substrates on seed germination and early plant development under controlled environmental conditions, using a specially designed intelligent plant growth simulation system. Experiments were conducted with lettuce and radish seeds sown in peat, garden compost, and podzol. The system allowed precise control of temperature, humidity, soil moisture, light, and carbon dioxide, enabling a reliable comparison of treatments. The initial physical and chemical properties of the substrates were characterized, showing the lowest moisture and density in peat, while compost and podzol displayed higher values and more balanced nutrient content. The results demonstrated that lettuce germinated successfully across all substrates, although peat delayed germination by 5–7 hours and true leaves appearance by up to 12 hours. In radish, the effect was more pronounced: compost and podzol ensured rapid germination (94–95 hours) with high success rates (~98%), whereas peat resulted in delays exceeding 100 hours and germination rates below 25%. Correlation analyses highlighted strong links between delayed germination and reduced performance, especially in peat. Overall, the study confirmed that substrate choice is critical for achieving uniform and efficient germination, with compost and podzol providing optimal conditions, and emphasized the practical value of simulation systems for improving crop establishment.