THE DEPENDENCE OF SUBSTRATE ENVIRONMENT AND IRRIGATION IN THE GROWING OF STRAWBERRY BY THE HYDROPONICS METHOD IN GREENHOUSE CONDITIONS

This study examined the practical and economic impact of care strategies for growing strawberries in a greenhouse involving the use of polyethylene (PE) and polyolefin (PO) films with different light transmission properties. Six genetically different varieties were included in the study, including “Seolhyang,” “Maehyang,” “Jukhyang,” “Keumsil,” “King’s Berry,” and the Japanese “Yotsuboshi F1” hybrid. Studied parameters for the research included changes in stem growth, leaf development, yield indicators, and the organoleptic (taste and aroma) properties of the strawberries. During cultivation, the daytime and nighttime temperatures under the PE film averaged 22.5 °C and 15.4 °C, respectively, while under the PO film they averaged 23.6 °C during the day and 17.3 °C at night. Scientific analyses had revealed that insufficient light availability caused reduced productivity, lower SPAD index values, and a decreased leaf area, as it occurred under the PE film. On the other hand, the PO film yielded an additional 3.3–5.0 t/ha, confirming its superior light retention. Consequently, the PO film supported optimal photosynthetic activity, resulting in enhanced plant growth and higher overall yields.