Avaliação do crescimento da alface crespa em hidroponia sob soluções nutritivas orgânica e mineral

Abstract

Hydroponic cultivation has become an effective and sustainable alternative for vegetable production. This study aimed to assess the growth of curly lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) in a hydroponic system, using two different nutrient solutions: mineral solution, made from commercial products Flex Azul and Flex Vermelho, and organic solution, based on seaweed extract. The experiment took place in a greenhouse at CECA (Rio Largo – AL), employing two separate systems with PVC pipes, with the solutions applied independently. Some plants in each system received fungicide treatment after symptoms of the fungus Microdochium spp. appeared. The variables measured included the number of leaves, plant height, plant diameter, fresh matter weight, dry matter weight, and the number of leaves affected by the fungus. The results showed better performance in plants fed with the mineral solution, especially in terms of fresh matter weight, plant height, and leaf number. The application of a rooting solution to plants in the organic treatment was a management response following root darkening. It is concluded that the mineral solution is more effective in hydroponic lettuce cultivation, although the organic solution, with proper management, can also be a viable alternative.