Effects of media composition and nutrient film hydroponic technique on the yield of two spinach species (Spinacia oleracea L. and Beta vulgaris subsp. maritima L.)

Abstract

With the increasing global population and the growing challenges of food security due to climate change, innovative technologies such as hydroponics are vital for sustainable agriculture. This study assesses the effects of different media compositions and the nutrient film technique (NFT) on the growth performance and yield of two spinach species, Spinacia oleracea (L.) and Beta vulgaris subsp. maritima (L)., under polyhouse conditions. Five treatments were used: T0 (Soil), T1 (Cocopeat + Perlite), T2 (Cocopeat + Vermicompost), T3 (Cocopeat + Khal Tea), and T4 (NFT with Cocopeat/Cocochips). Parameters such as germination percentage (GP), mean germination time (MGT), seed vigor index (SVI), morphological attributes, and biomass yield were assessed. Results showed that Cocopeat + Perlite enhanced GP and SVI, achieving 83.2 % germination for S. oleracea and 74.6 % for B. vulgaris. The NFT system showed better plant growth metrics, including shoot and root length, leaf area, and biomass, compared to soil and other treatments. These findings highlight the potential of hydroponic systems, particularly NFT, for efficient and sustainable spinach production. Further studies are recommended to assess long-term performance and scalability of spinach cultivation under hydroponics.