Interaction effect of lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) varieties in aeroponics and geoponics system
摘要
This study investigates the interaction effects of different lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) varieties cultivated in aeroponic and geoponic systems. Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) is a widely preferred exotic leafy vegetable due to its rich antioxidants content. As a temperate crop, lettuce varieties do not perform well in hot seasons and are better suited for cultivation during cold or kharif season. However, with the selecting suitable lettuce varieties and growing systems, it is possible to meet nationwide market demand. Aeroponics system is gaining popularity for its input efficiency, low climatic risk, rapid growth, and superior yield. It maximizes production by utilizing vertical spaces, including rooftops and indoors. Hence to identify the ideal variety of lettuce for subtropical region with suitable production system (aeroponics and geoponics) the experiment was carried out during 2021-22 at Experimental Farm of ICAR-Central Institute for Subtropical Horticulture Rehmankhera, Lucknow (U.P). Five varieties (Tango, Summer Star, Grand Rapid, Bingo and Black Rose) of lettuce were evaluated for yield and quality under aeroponics and geoponics. Among the varieties evaluated Summer Star was high yielder producing 234.85 and 191.44 quintals leaves per hectare under aeroponics and geoponics, respectively. Additionally, aeroponics consistently outperformed geoponics in terms of yield per unit area, highlighting its potential for efficient lettuce production in subtropical regions.