Effect of Water pH on Yield and Nutritional Status of Greenhouse Cucumber Grown in Recirculating Hydroponics

ABSTRACT

Cucumbers are produced in integrated hydroponic and aquaculture systems (aquaponics). Aquaponics balances pH for plants, fish, and nitrifying bacteria. Nitrification prevents buildup of toxic waste ammonia by conversion to nitrate (NO₃ ⁻⁾- nitrogen (N). The pH for hydroponic cucumbers (5.5–6.0) and nitrification (7.5–9.0) requires reconciliation to improve systems integration. Cucumbers were grown at pH of 5.0, 6.0, 7.0, and 8.0 with additional foliar sprays at pH 7.0 and 8.0. Plant shoot dry weight, length, N, and phosphorus (P) content at 14 DAT were similar from pH 5.0 to 7.0, but reduced at pH 8.0. Nutrient solution and shoot dry matter Mn and Fe decreased as pH increased. Foliar sprays had no effect on cucumber fruit yield. Early yield was higher at pH 5.0 compared to pH 8.0 but total yield was unaffected by pH. Cucumbers in recirculating culture may be maintained at pH levels more optimum for nitrification (7.5–8.0) except during production for early season markets.

Keywords:

• ammonia biofiltration
• nitrifying bacteria
• sustainability