Abstract:
A study was conducted to develop a vertical hydroponics system and to
compare the performance of the developed system with existing NFT hydroponics
system. Both the structures were installed in naturally ventilated polyhouse, in the
research plot of Department of Irrigation and Drainage Engineering situated near the
LH KCAET, Tavanur, Kerala, during the period April-May 2024. The objective of
this study is to develop a simple vertical farming hydroponic system which can be
used to grow leafy vegetables inside polyhouse. Spinach was grown for 28 days (4
weeks) in both the system using nutrient solution as a growing media. Microclimatic
parameters such as relative humidity, light intensity, photosynthetically active
radiation and temperature were observed inside and outside the polyhouse during the
study. Hourly average air temperature, RH and light intensity were varying from time
to time during the crop period. Hence, exhaust fans and foggers were used to control
the environment inside the polyhouse against the extreme climate. Nutrient solution
parameters such as pH, Electrical Conductivity (EC) and Total Dissolved Solids
(TDS) were monitored and maintained in the desirable range. Nutrient A, B and water
were used for correction. Biometric parameters related to plant health and
development, such as plant height, leaf size, root development are recorded in each
week.
The study proved that the structure was affordable with utilisation of less area.
Furthermore, the structure, with some modifications can help to increase the crop
production and maximize the returns. Overall, hydroponic farming has a potential to
provide fresh produce year-round and offers the prospect of solving problems that are
integrated with conventional methods.
