Comparison of the effects of rockwool and coir medium on the growth, fruit quality, and productivity of strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa) in greenhouse soilless culture

Summary

This comparative field trial evaluated rockwool and coir as soilless growing media for the Seolhyang strawberry cultivar under controlled greenhouse conditions in South Korea. Rockwool promoted earlier transition to reproductive growth and achieved higher fruit number and total yield, whereas coir supported more vigorous vegetative growth; however, substrate type did not significantly influence fruit sugar content or firmness. The findings suggest substrate choice influences developmental phenology and yield in soilless strawberry systems, though fruit quality attributes remain largely unaffected.

Regional applicability

The study was conducted in South Korea under automated controlled-environment conditions using a single cultivar and standardised nutrient solution. Findings may have limited direct applicability to United Kingdom strawberry systems, which typically operate under different climate control regimes, cultivar choices, and production scales; however, the comparative methodology and substrate performance insights could inform UK soilless horticulture operations, particularly for winter greenhouse production. Further regional trials would be needed to validate substrate performance under UK-specific conditions.

Key measures

Transition timing to reproductive growth, number of fruits, total yield, vegetative growth vigour, sugar content (Brix), fruit firmness

Outcomes reported

The study compared plant growth, fruit productivity, and fruit quality between rockwool and coir substrates in greenhouse soilless strawberry cultivation. Measurements included transition timing to reproductive growth, fruit number, total yield, vegetative growth vigour, sugar content, and fruit firmness.

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