Examination of Lettuce Grown with Compost Teas in Nutrient Film Technology (NFT) Hydroponics

Derek Melendez

Co-Presenters: Sofia Dias

College: Hennings College of Science Mathematics and Technology

Major: BS.BIO/ENVIR

Faculty Research Mentor: Mu, Dongyan  

Abstract:

Hydroponics is a farming technique that doesn’t require soil to grows plants in a nutrient-rich environment, therefore they are grown in nutrient rich liquid. This requires less land being used while achieving higher nutrient use efficiency. It supports sustainable farming and localized agriculture in urban areas.This project conducted a comparative analysis of vermicompost teas as an organic nutrient source in hydroponic production. Two types of vermicompost—one produced at Kean University and one commercially purchased—were brewed into compost teas and applied in Nutrient Film Technique (NFT) hydroponics to grow lettuce over 36 days.Throughout the growth cycle, plant yields, tissue nutrient content, and nutrient solution composition were measured and monitored. The study then compared results, assessing compost quality, nutrient transition, and key factors influencing plant growth in NFT hydroponics.The goal of this project is to examine how vermicompost affect the quality of our plants and what changes we can make when it comes to brewing our compost teas.The findings provide insights into vermicompost as an organic fertilizer, exploring its potential to replace inorganic nutrients in hydroponic production.