ASSESSMENT OF PARAMETERS OF PEAT SUBSTRATES FOR GREENHOUSE FARMING
Abstract
Purpose. The purpose of the study is to conduct a comprehensive theoretical, analytical and comparative assessment of the physicochemical, agrochemical and water-physical parameters of the main industrial types of peat substrates of Ukrainian production based on the development of their official specifications and labeling to optimize the choice of growing media in modern greenhouse farming, as well as determine their compliance with the biological requirements of various groups of vegetable, flower and garden crops. Methods. The methodology of the scientific work is based on a system-structural analysis, comparative comparison, generalization and theoretical-agronomic processing of official technical passports, quality certificates and information marking on packages of peat substrates of leading domestic brands. The study covered analytical screening of declared indicators of active acidity (pH), specific electrical conductivity (EC), fractional composition and level of starting mineral nutrition (NPK) of the three most popular samples of peat products on the Ukrainian market: TM PEATFIELD “For seedlings”, TM ECO PLUS “Universal” and Rich Land “Flora Plus”. Results. Based on a systematic analysis of manufacturers’ labels, a significant technological differentiation of substrates was established. It was proven that the fine-fraction substrate TM PEATFIELD (0–5 mm) has the highest capillary moisture capacity and the maximum level of starting nutrition (EC 1.2–1.5 mS/cm), which makes it indispensable for cassette cultivation of tomato, pepper and industrial greens seedlings. The sample TM ECO PLUS “Universal” (fraction 0–15 mm) is characterized by optimal aeration porosity (20–22%) and high buffering capacity due to the combination of top and transitional peat, which is recommended for long-term vegetation of potted flowers and small-scale cultivation of vegetables. Rich Land “Flora Plus” substrate is characterized by a consistently low declared pH level (3.5–4.5) and a coarse structure, which is critically important for the root system of acid-loving berry and coniferous garden crops. Conclusions. Processing of official data from producers allows for accurate prediction of root environment behavior at the stage of greenhouse production planning. The choice of a specific type of peat substrate should strictly be subject to the phase of ontogenesis and the specificity of plant mineral nutrition.
References
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