Optimum Nutrient Concentration to Improve Growth and Quality of Strawberry Cultivars ‘Berrystar’ and ‘Jukhyang’ in Hydroponics

Summary

This field trial evaluated the effects of nutrient solution concentration at four growth stages on two Korean strawberry cultivars ('Berrystar' and 'Jukhyang') grown hydroponically in a controlled environment. The study found that 'Berrystar' performs optimally at standard nutrient concentrations (EC 0.68–1.0–1.2–1.0 dS·m⁻¹), whilst 'Jukhyang' achieves superior growth, fruit quality, and yield at 30% higher concentrations (EC 0.68–1.2–1.55–1.3 dS·m⁻¹). These cultivar-specific recommendations provide practical guidance for optimising hydroponic strawberry production.

Regional applicability

This research addresses protected horticulture practices relevant to United Kingdom glasshouse and polytunnel strawberry production, particularly for high-value cultivars. The hydroponic methods and nutrient management principles are transferable, though cultivar selection and seasonal timing would require adaptation to UK growing conditions and cultivar availability.

Key measures

Plant growth parameters (shoot growth, leaf colour, quantum yield), fruit characteristics (weight, length, width, firmness), yield (number and total weight of harvested fruit), fruit composition (total sugars, reducing sugars, non-reducing sugars)

Outcomes reported

The study investigated how nutrient solution concentration at different growth stages affected plant growth, yield, and fruit quality in two recently developed strawberry cultivars grown hydroponically. Cultivar-specific optimal nutrient concentrations were identified based on comprehensive assessment of growth characteristics and fruit quality metrics.

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