Summary
This study examined whether controlled intermittent salinity stress during fruiting could enhance sugar accumulation (total soluble solids) in hydroponically grown strawberries. Alternating freshwater with 77 mM saltwater every 72 h in substrate-based systems achieved the highest TSS (13.28 °Bx, ~24% above control), without reducing yield or significantly increasing fruit deformities, though the Kratky method produced higher deformity rates under the same salt stress. The findings suggest substrate-based hydroponic strawberries irrigated intermittently with 43–77 mM saltwater can improve nutritional quality without commercial yield penalties.
Regional applicability
The hydroponic production method and abiotic stress approach are transferable to United Kingdom glasshouse and indoor horticulture operations, where controlled-environment strawberry cultivation is established. However, the study did not specify the cultivar, temperature regime, or light conditions, limiting direct application without local optimisation trials.
Key measures
Total soluble solids (°Brix), yield (kg or count), fruit weight (g), fruit deformity percentage (%)
Outcomes reported
The study measured total soluble solids (°Brix), yield, fruit weight, and fruit deformity rates in strawberries subjected to intermittent salt applications during fruiting in two hydroponic systems. Intermittent 77 mM saltwater every 72 h in substrate-based systems increased TSS by approximately 24% compared to control, reaching 13.28 °Bx.
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