Influence of Vermitea (VT) and Fish Amino Acids (FAA) Supplemented with Snap Solution on the Growth Performance of Lettuce (Lactuca Sativa) in a Non-Circulating Hydroponic System

Abstract

Hydroponic is a practice of farming without soil. Different materials can be used as growth mediums if such meets the required essential nutrient requirements of the plants. This method offers several benefits, especially in urban areas with limited space and regions with poor quality of soil that is prone to drought and flood. However, challenges such as nutritional management continue to pose significant barriers to widespread adoption of hydroponics. To address these concerns, this study investigated the use of vermitea (VT) and fish amino acids (FAA) in conjunction with a Simple Nutrient Addition Program (SNAP) solution in a non-circulating hydroponic system for lettuce (Lactuca sativa) production. The study sought to test the growth response of lettuce to varied nutrient levels, establish the best solution for maximum yield, and assess the economic viability of the treatments. The study, conducted in Brgy. Camoning, Asuncion, Davao del Norte, used a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with five treatments and three replications. Results indicated that the treatment with 10ml VT, 10ml FAA, and 2.5ml SNAP per liter (T2) significantly outperformed others in terms of plant height, number of leaves, leaf dimensions, fresh weight, yield, and return on production cost. In contrast, lower nutrient levels, as seen in treatment T5 (VT + FAA), resulted in stunted growth and poor plant development. Based on the findings, the study recommends T2 as the most effective solution for improving lettuce growth and enhancing profitability in non-circulating hydroponic systems.