Development and evaluation of a low cost circulating hydroponic system /
by Ruel Marges Mojica.
- Indang, Cavite : Cavite State University- Main Campus, 1997.
- xvii, 52 pages: illustrations ; 28 cm.
Thesis (BSAE - - Soil and Water Management) Don Severino Agricultural College.
Includes bibliographical references.
College of Engineering and Information Technology (CEIT) College of Engineering and Information Technology (CEIT)
MOJICA, RUEL MARGES, Don Severino Agricultural College, Indang, Cavite. April 1997. "Development and Evaluation of a Low Cost Circulating Hydroponic System". Adviser: Engr. Leyma L. Cero.
The study on the development and evaluation of a low cost circulating hydroponic system was conducted at the former ANEC Energy Village of the Don Severino Agricultural College, Indang, Cavite from August 1, 1996 to December 31, 1996. The general objective of the study was to develop and evaluate a low cost circulating hydroponic system. A Nutrient Film Technique (NFT) set-up with a floor area of 4.5 mē was constructed. Three 4-in and three 3-in diameter standard PVC pipes, each provided with ten holes, were laid horizontally in the prepared triangular frame. Pots were then fitted into the channel holes.
The system was designed to operate using a pump but due to its clogging the organic nutrient solution was allowed to circulate by gravity. Using the developed system, a single factor experiment consisting of two treatments was arranged in Completely Randomized Design (CRD). The 4-in and 3-in diameter PVC pipes represented Treatment 1 and 2, respectively. Ten experimental seedlings were assigned for every replication making an overall total of 60 experimental units or observations. Results showed that the treatments considered were not significant in terms of plant height during the first eight weeks of growth.
The opposite was true during the last four weeks of growth. Moreover, the results revealed significant differences between treatment means on final root length, fruit diameter and total fruit yield. The use of 4-in diameter PVC pipes favored the growth and development of bell pepper. It was also noted that plants on both treatments were damaged by pests. Slight damage caused by slug caterpillar were noted. Furthermore, it was observed that the plants' performance was impaired during their reproductive stage resulting in low yield quality. The decreasing level of nutrient concentration retarded the growth and development of bell pepper.
Generally, the performance of the system was not favorable considering the plants' growth performance. Only few of the fruits developed can be considered marketable. Hence, the cost and return analysis was not conclusive.