Application of multiple parallel mineralization method to grow lettuce, Swiss chard, and peppers in a simplified deep flow technique hydroponic system

Organic fertilizers are not widely used in hydroponics due to an absence of mineralizing microbes that process organic inputs into plant available forms. The Multiple Parallel Mineralization (MPM) method enables this microbial processing to occur in hydroponic systems. The objective of this method is to provide an accessible protocol for use of the MPM method in simplified deep flow technique hydroponic systems without a need for laboratory testing of nutrient content. The method described here provides hydroponic growers with an alternative option to mineral fertilizers. We provide information about yields and the affordability of this method that growers can use to determine the economic viability of this method in their respective markets. Swiss chard, lettuce, and bell peppers were grown with this method Aquarium nitrate test kits are used to replace lab testing typically used with the MPM method to validate the presence of nitrate as an indicator of microbial activity.