Hydroponic growth of lisianthus as cut flower under nutrient film technique

Abstract

The objective of this work was to evaluate yield and commercial traits of lisianthus (Eustoma grandiflorum) flowers growth in nutrient film technique (NFT). The experimental design was in randomized blocks, in factorial scheme (4x3), with three replicates. The treatments were four cultivars (Echo Champagne, Mariachi Pure White, Balboa Yellow and Ávila Blue Rim) and three nutrient solutions (Test, modified Steiner and Barbosa). The NFT system is a feasible alternative for the growth of lisianthus in Barbosa and Test solutions. The cultivar Echo Champagne was superior for cycle, length of production, height of flower stem, number of leaves, diameter of the bud flower and fresh and dry weight production, while the cultivar Mariachi Pure White was superior for length of production. The cultivar Ávila Blue Rim showed good length of production, number of flowers and fresh and dry matter production, while the cultivar Balboa Yellow had long length of production and bud flower diameter.