The Influence of Nutrition on The Growth of Red Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L. var. Olga Red) Using The Tower Technique Aeroponic System Application

Abstract

The conversion of agricultural land into settlements, industrial factories, and public facilities is a phenomenon that occurs yearly. For narrow yards, it is recommended to use a verticulture system by developing an agricultural system from conventional habits to a hydroponic planting system that can be applied vertically. This study aimed to determine the effect of various nutrients on the growth of red lettuce plants (Lactuca sativa L. var. Olga Red). The research method used in this research is an experimental method with three aeroponic installations and three different types of nutrients (ordinary water, rice washing water, and AB Mix) by conducting direct analysis in the greenhouse of the Faculty of Food Technology and Agroindustry, University of Mataram. The parameters observed were plant water requirements, nutrients (temperature, pH and concentration), and plant response (number of leaves, root length, plant height, and wet weight of plants). The results of observations are analyzed statistically using Microsoft Excel, and displayed in tables and graphs. The results showed that the value of the water needs of the middle period plants was 26,116 liters/day, and the final period was 48,36 liters/day.The measurement result of acidity (pH) is 6,68 - 9,18. The temperature on the installation is 26°C - 34°C while the temperature outside the installation reaches 26°C-38°C. The highest light intensity occurs in the placement of the thermometer at the top of the installation. It was concluded that adequate nutrition, temperature and shade would affect the red lettuce plant’s productivity quite well, with repeated nutrition twice in ten days.