Summary
This study compared five nutrient solution formulations (RDA, Yamazaki, PBG, UOS, and newly developed NewUOS) for hydroponic strawberry 'Maehyang' cultivation in coir substrate. Whilst growth parameters showed limited differences between formulations, yield and marketability varied by season, with NewUOS showing higher fruit number and weight from December to February, and Yamazaki performing better from March to May. The findings suggest season-specific nutrient formulation adjustments may optimise commercial strawberry production under protected cultivation.
Regional applicability
This study was conducted in South Korea and addresses hydroponic strawberry cultivation in protected environments, which is relevant to United Kingdom glasshouse and polytunnel horticulture. However, the specific cultivar ('Maehyang'), regional climate conditions, and the particular nutrient formulations tested (RDA, UOS) may have limited direct transferability; UK growers would need to adapt findings to local growing conditions, water quality, and established commercial nutrient protocols.
Key measures
Leaf width and petiole length at 60 days post-transplanting; photosynthetic rate; nutrient solution EC and pH; mineral ion absorption (nitrate nitrogen, potassium); shoot and root fresh and dry weight at 6 months; fruit length, width, weight, sugar content, number of fruits per plant, and total yield from December to May
Outcomes reported
The study evaluated the effects of five different nutrient solution compositions on growth, yield, and physiological parameters of strawberry 'Maehyang' grown hydroponically in coir substrate over an 8-month period. Plant biomass, photosynthetic rate, mineral ion absorption, fruit yield and quality were measured across different nutrient formulations.
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