Effects of CO2 Enrichment on the Absorption of Water and Mineral Nutrients in Strawberry Grown in NFT.

Summary

This controlled-environment study demonstrated that CO2 enrichment (700–800 ppm) markedly altered the nutrient and water absorption dynamics of strawberry plants grown by NFT, increasing the ratio of mineral uptake per unit water absorbed by 30–60%, most notably during low-temperature and low-light winter months (November–February). Leaf nitrogen concentration decreased under CO2 enrichment, whilst other macronutrients remained largely unchanged. The authors conclude that nutrient solution concentrations should be increased by 50–100% above conventional recommendations when growing strawberry under CO2 enrichment to maintain adequate plant nutrition.

Regional applicability

This work was conducted in Japan in a controlled-environment system and examined a single cultivar. The findings are relevant to United Kingdom protected horticulture and greenhouse strawberry production, particularly for winter and early-spring crops when ambient light and temperature are limiting; however, transferability to outdoor or field conditions is limited, and cultivar-specific responses should be verified before broad adoption of adjusted nutrient protocols.

Key measures

Mineral uptake concentration per unit water absorbed (n/w); total uptake amount of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium and magnesium; leaf nutrient concentrations; plant yield and vigour; nutrient solution concentration (NO3−, NH4+, H2PO4−, K+, Ca2+, Mg2+)

Outcomes reported

The study measured the effects of elevated CO2 (700–800 ppm) on water and mineral nutrient absorption rates in strawberry plants grown via nutrient film technique (NFT), and on leaf nutrient concentrations and total yield. CO2 enrichment increased mineral uptake concentration per unit water absorbed by 30–60% compared to ambient CO2 controls, with implications for nutrient solution management in controlled-environment horticulture.

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