The Nutrient Film Technique (NFT) is a soilless technique in which plant roots are exposed to a thin film of oxygen-rich nutrient solution. Such technique is particularly suitable for plant physiology studies because: i) it allows precise and continuous control of the nutrient solution composition, enabling the study of specific nutrient effects on plants; ii) it improves nutrient uptake and reduces the risks of water stress and nutrient deficiencies. These characteristics make NFT ideal for scientific experiments that require highly controlled conditions. The present study aims to investigate the variation in the uptake and distribution of macro- and micronutrients in 'Scopatizzo' (Cucumis melo L.) plants, cultivated using the closed-cycle NFT system. The ultimate goal is to optimize the plant's mineral nutrition and increase the efficiency of nutrient solution use. The research (PNRR - Agritech National Research Centre - CN00000022) was conducted at the greenhouse facilities of the experimental farm “La Noria” of ISPA-CNR in Bari (IT) between September and November 2023. 'Scopatizzo' plants were grown in a closed-cycle NFT system with and without supplemental lighting provided by LEDs with a photosynthetic phot flux density (PPFD) by 200 μmol·m-2·s-1. During the growth period, three destructive samplings were performed at 18, 34 and 63 days after transplant, and samples of nutrient solution, roots, stems, leaves, and fruits were collected. Subsequently, concentrations of P, K, Ca, Mg, Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu, B and Na were determined using ICP-OES. Preliminary results indicate a variation in nutrient uptake and distribution among different plant organs. Macronutrients such as K and Mg were predominantly absorbed by leaves and stems, while micronutrients such as Fe and Mn were found in higher concentrations in the roots. Additionally, artificial lighting did not influence absorption patterns. Understanding the patterns of nutrient uptake and distribution in various organs of 'Scopatizzo' can provide valuable insights for optimizing fertilization practices and improving nutrient solution efficiency. Adjusting nutrient concentrations in the NFT according to the specific needs of different growth stages and the presence of artificial lighting can lead to healthier and more productive plants. The results of this study can be used to develop more effective mineral nutrition protocols for hydroponic crops, aiming to improve nutrient use efficiency, reduce production costs, and minimize the environmental impact of intensive agriculture. Agritech National Research Center, European Union Next-Generation EU PNRR – MISSIONE 4 COMPONENTE 2, INVESTIMENTO 1.4 – D.D. 1032 17/06/2022, CN00000022.
Uptake and Distribution of Macro- and Micronutrients in a melon landrace ('Scopatizzo') Grown in Nutrient Film Technique (NFT)
Palmitessa O. D.;Porfido C.
;Terzano R.;Santamaria P.
2024-01-01
Abstract
The Nutrient Film Technique (NFT) is a soilless technique in which plant roots are exposed to a thin film of oxygen-rich nutrient solution. Such technique is particularly suitable for plant physiology studies because: i) it allows precise and continuous control of the nutrient solution composition, enabling the study of specific nutrient effects on plants; ii) it improves nutrient uptake and reduces the risks of water stress and nutrient deficiencies. These characteristics make NFT ideal for scientific experiments that require highly controlled conditions. The present study aims to investigate the variation in the uptake and distribution of macro- and micronutrients in 'Scopatizzo' (Cucumis melo L.) plants, cultivated using the closed-cycle NFT system. The ultimate goal is to optimize the plant's mineral nutrition and increase the efficiency of nutrient solution use. The research (PNRR - Agritech National Research Centre - CN00000022) was conducted at the greenhouse facilities of the experimental farm “La Noria” of ISPA-CNR in Bari (IT) between September and November 2023. 'Scopatizzo' plants were grown in a closed-cycle NFT system with and without supplemental lighting provided by LEDs with a photosynthetic phot flux density (PPFD) by 200 μmol·m-2·s-1. During the growth period, three destructive samplings were performed at 18, 34 and 63 days after transplant, and samples of nutrient solution, roots, stems, leaves, and fruits were collected. Subsequently, concentrations of P, K, Ca, Mg, Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu, B and Na were determined using ICP-OES. Preliminary results indicate a variation in nutrient uptake and distribution among different plant organs. Macronutrients such as K and Mg were predominantly absorbed by leaves and stems, while micronutrients such as Fe and Mn were found in higher concentrations in the roots. Additionally, artificial lighting did not influence absorption patterns. Understanding the patterns of nutrient uptake and distribution in various organs of 'Scopatizzo' can provide valuable insights for optimizing fertilization practices and improving nutrient solution efficiency. Adjusting nutrient concentrations in the NFT according to the specific needs of different growth stages and the presence of artificial lighting can lead to healthier and more productive plants. The results of this study can be used to develop more effective mineral nutrition protocols for hydroponic crops, aiming to improve nutrient use efficiency, reduce production costs, and minimize the environmental impact of intensive agriculture. Agritech National Research Center, European Union Next-Generation EU PNRR – MISSIONE 4 COMPONENTE 2, INVESTIMENTO 1.4 – D.D. 1032 17/06/2022, CN00000022.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
