Department of Education

Division of Sarangani
Alabel National Science High School
Regional Science High School for Region XII
Alabel

COMPARISON BETWEEN KRATKY

HYDROPONIC SYSTEM AND SOIL BASED SYSTEM
IN THE GROWTH RESPONSE OF ICEBERG LETTUCE (Lactuca Sativa)

A Project Proposal Presented To

The Faculty of Alabel National Science High School
Regional Science High School for Region XII
Alabel, Sarangani Province

In Partial Fulfillment of the

Requirements for the Subject
Research X

Submitted by:
NEOUO MCLAREN S. TEJADA
VENICE SOPHIA V. FUYONAN
ALYZIA M. TADIAMAN
AIRON C. DAGO-OC

Submitted to:
MARY JANE O. MEDRANO
Research Adviser

January 2022
 DESCRIPTION

Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) is one of the most commonly grown hydroponic vegetables.

It is globally important to cool season leafy vegetables. It is taken as a synonym of

“salads” and contains about 6-19% mineral elements on the dry weight basis. Among

other vegetables, it is the richest source of calcium and the second greatest source of

nutrients after spinach. The most important crop in the group of leafy vegetables is

Lactuca sativa (Lettuce). It is a member of the Asteraceae family, which is estimated to

be the largest plant family with between 23,000 and 30,000 species (Bayer & Starr,

1998).

According to (Perez et al., 2009) In the Philippines, the availability of good-quality

soil is gradually dwindling. Soil degradation has become a major ecological and

agricultural problem in both urban and rural areas. Soil erosion is the most common and

well-studied type of soil degradation in the Philippines, yet estimates of the rate of soil

loss are very diverse due to the various approaches utilized and the various

environmental conditions. Other types of soil deterioration, such as chemical and

physical soil degradation, have received very little attention.

As the world’s population expands, so does the need for various things, particularly

food products. A food crisis is projected in the future years as a result of this rising

demand. Other approaches, such as farming methods and food sources, must be used

to avoid such catastrophes (Gashgari et al., 2018). Hydroponics has been proven to be

a practical way of growing vegetables (tomatoes, lettuce, cucumbers, and peppers) as

well as ornamental plants like herbs, roses, freesia, and foliage plants. The demand for

hydroponically grown produce has exploded in recent years as a result of the methyl

bromide prohibition in soil growth (Dunn,2013).

1
 Hydroponic food production, or growing food without soil, is increasing worldwide and

seems to have a positive overtone as consumers are becoming more aware of the

environmental benefits (Jensen, 1999). Hydroponics can be grown in desert or urban

environments, independent of soil quality, making it ideal for growing food closer to

consumers (Bellows et al., 2003). The hydroponic system has various advantages,

including water conservation, year-round production, increased yields, and reduced

pesticide use (Resh & Howard, 2012). Additionally, hydroponic fruits and vegetables

have been documented in the literature as having higher nutritional value and more

desirable sensory attributes compared to soil grown produce (Buchanan & Omaye,

2013; Gichuhi, et al., 2009; Selma et al., 2012; Sgherri et al., 2010).

Plants can be cultivated solely in a nutrient solution (liquid culture) or with the help of

an inert media (aggregate culture). All of the nutritional requirements of the plants are

met in both systems by irrigation water (Kaiser & Ernst, 2016). Currently, soilless

agriculture techniques based on hydroponic solution (such as floating systems, nutrient

film technology (also known as NFT) – or aeroponics are used in around 3.5 percent of

the global area grown under tunnels and greenhouses for vegetable production

(Hickman, 2016).

According to growers, hydroponic systems help them in expanding their ability for

continuous production in a short growing period, require less space, and plants can be

produced anywhere, i.e., in small spaces with a controlled growth environment. Growers

often reply that hydroponics always allows them to have higher productivity and yields

without any constraints of climate and weather conditions . In addition, growers often

2
claim that the quality of hydroponic produce is superior because it uses a highly

controlled environment and enables a more homogeneous production without any loss

of water and nutrients (Aiser,2018).

The researchers must make it clear that the purpose of this study is to determine if

hydroponics will be a better alternative or whether traditional soil-growing will continue

to be superior. The impacts of hydroponics will be determined in this study, which may

aid those living in poverty and, in the long run, address family famine in the Philippines.

3
 RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVES

Rationale of the Study

The Philippines has a diverse range of products and resources. However, hunger

and poverty continue to be a major problem in the country today. According to a poll

conducted by the Social Weather Stations (SWS), an estimated 3.1 million Filipino

families experienced hunger at least once in the fourth quarter of 2016. (Gavilan, 2016).

With this, the researchers seek to focus on the effects and differences of growing

lettuce (Lactuca sativa) in hydroponics and soil in terms of number height. The

hydroponics set-up will be built using recycled materials, while the soil set-up will be

grown in seedling bags. Furthermore, the outcomes of this study will aid society by

assisting in the resolution of hunger and poverty issues in the Philippines by providing

immediate food supplies for people to consume.

Objectives of the Study

This study aims to:

a. Compare the growth of Iceberg Lettuce in Soil setup and Kratky setup

(Hydroponics setup)

4
 METHODOLOGY

Figure No. 1 Flowchart of Procedures

Materials

The following materials will be used in this study: Seeds of Iceberg Lettuce (Lactuca

Sativa), Nutrient Solution, Net pots, water, coco noir, clay pebbles, pH meter, plastic

bottles, soil, and tape measure.

Study Site and Duration of the Study

The preparation of the materials used will be done at Purok Progressive, Maribulan,

Alabel Sarangani Province including the planting of the lettuce seeds(Iceberg Lettuce),

the collection of data, and the synthesis of the results. This study will be conducted from

February to March 2022.

Research Design

This study will focus on the comparison of the growth of Iceberg Lettuce plants grown

in soil and Kratky systems under the same seed type and growing conditions. The

height will be measured to determine the growth of the lettuce plants. This study will be

using an experimental research design.

5
Preparation of Soil Based Planting System

Figure No. 2 Soil Based Planting System

For the soil-based planting system, there will be three replicates. The researchers

will use three similar-sized pots filled with soil wherein each will have one lettuce seed

planted about 1 cm inside. Every three days, 3 mL of water will be added to the

replicates. After three weeks, the replicates will be introduced to water containing

nutrients from Solutions A and B.

Preparation of Soil Pre Planting System (For Kratky Hydroponics)

Figure No. 3 Soil Pre Planting System (For Kratky Hydroponics)

The researchers will use a rectangular pot filled with soil. Three lettuce seeds will be

planted and will be grown in the same manner as the replicates for the soil system.

They will be exposed to plain water only. The seeds will be transplanted after three

weeks, and only then will they be introduced to the Kratky system.

6
Preparation of Kratky Planting System

Figure No. 4 Kratky Hydroponics Planting System

For the Kratky planting system, there will be three replicates. Three equal-sized

plastic bottles will be cut in half. The bottom halves of the bottles will be used, with each

containing one seedling. The researchers chose coco coir and clay pebbles as the

hydroponic substrate of the lettuce seedlings. The net pot will be positioned halfway into

the bottle, filled with the growing medium and the transplanted lettuce. The upper

portion of the growing media will be coco coir, while the lowest portion will be clay

pebbles. The researchers will only fill the bottle partly with nutrient solution, up to a level

where the clay pebbles are. The lower part of the roots will be immersed in nutrient

solution, where it will collect water and nutrients, while the upper part will be exposed to

humid air and absorb oxygen.

7
Transplantation of Iceberg Lettuce Seedlings to Kratky Planting System

The researchers will remove the lettuce seedlings from the soil after three weeks.

Following that, the roots will be dipped in water to remove any remaining soil. Following

that, neem oil will be used to remove any existing pests. The researchers will transplant

the seedlings into separate net pots filled with coco coir after the roots are free of soil.

Mixing of Nutrient Solutions

The researchers will be using Yamasaki Nutrient Solution, which must be purchased

online. According to the specification, the NPK ratio of Solution Part A is 14.8-0-20.5,

while the NPK ratio of Solution Part B is 8.8-9.2-28.2. As per the solution's instructions,

the researchers will add 2.0 ml of Solutions A and B equally, which is the suggested

amount for leafy plants, with 3 ml water to create the nutrient solution. After three

weeks, the nutrient solution will be used for the replicates in both planting systems. The

nutrition solution for the Kratky planting system replicates will be changed every 7 to 10

days to prevent the formation of bacteria and pests.

Monitoring and Controlling of pH Level

The pH of the nutrient solution, which is composed of Solutions Part A and B mixed

with water, should be between 5.5 and 6.5. A pH meter will be used to measure the pH

level. Every three days, the pH of the nutrient solution used for the replicates in the soil

planting system will be monitored. The pH of the nutrient solution used for the Kratky

planting system replicates will be checked every 7 to 10 days. If necessary, the

researchers will add mainly water to regulate the pH level of the nutrient solution.

8
Measuring the Height of Iceberg Lettuce Plants

There are two types of planting systems in the study. Each planting system has

three replicates. The replicates in both planting systems will go through different

planting procedures but will be exposed to the same experimental settings in the study

site. After three weeks, the researchers will introduce the nutrient solution to the

replicates in both planting systems. The height of the plants will be measured only after

the replicates have been exposed to the solution. The researchers will measure the

height of the lettuce plants for 30 days using a tape measure.

Synthesis of results

The data from the three replicates from each planting scheme will be collected and

combined to present the findings. The data of soil-grown lettuce plants will be compared

to the data of hydroponically grown lettuce plants, with the aim to conclude from the

findings.

9
 WORK PLAN

Table No. 1

Timeline of Activities

January February March

Activity 2-8 9-15 16-22 23-26 1-7 8-14 15-21 22-28 1-7 8-14 15-31

Project Proposal Writing

Gathering of Materials

Planting of Iceberg
Lettuce Seeds

Growing of Iceberg
Lettuce seeds

Transplanting seedlings
to Kratky setup

Growing of Iceberg
Lettuce seedlings
applied with nutrient
solution

Measuring the height of

Iceberg Lettuce plants

Collection of data

Synthesis of results

With the ongoing pandemic, strict health protocols were issued by the government,

thus the researchers apportioned their time with the goal by finishing by the end of April

2022.

Table No.1 discusses the different activities to be conducted by the group, as well as

its duration and target dates for completion. As shown in the said table, the first four

weeks will be spent on project proposal making and gathering of materials. Another

three weeks will be spent on planting and growing of the iceberg lettuce seeds and

transplanting the pre planted iceberg lettuce seeds to the Kratky setup. Lastly will be a

month for growing iceberg lettuces in both setups and every end of the week will be

measuring, collecting data for the height of iceberg lettuces and synthesis of results
10
 BIBLIOGRAPHY

Agius, C. (2015). The yield and quality of lettuce crop, grown in different growing media.
Carlos Agius.
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/314121919_The_yield_and_quality_of_
lettuce_crop_grown_in_different_growing_media

Estefânia V. R. Campos, J. L. (2016 ). Neem Oil and Crop Protection: From Now to the
Future. (S. Araújo, Ed.) Sorocaba, Brazil.
http://www.jbiopest.com/users/lw8/efiles/vol_5_0_72_76f.pdf

Gashgari, R., Alharbi, K., Mughrbil, K., Jan, A., & Glolam, A. (2018). Comparison
between Growing Plants in Hydroponic System and Soil Based System.
Paper presented at the 4th World Congress on Mechanical, Chemical, and
Material Engineering, Madrid, Spain. doi: 10.11159/icmie18.131

Imai, H. (1987) . AVRDC non-circulating hydroponic system. Pp. 109-122. In: C.C. Tu
And T.F. Sheen (eds.) Proc. Symposium on horticultural production under
structure. Taiwan Agr. Res. Inst. Taichung.

Kratky, B.A. (2009). Three non-circulating hydroponic methods for growing lettuce.
Proceedings of the International Symposium on Soilless Culture and
Hydroponics. Acta. Hort. 843:65-72.

Kratky, B. & Horticulturist. (2004). A Suspended Pot, Non-Circulating Hydroponic

Method. Acta Hort., 648, 83-89. Paper presented at the South Pacific Soilless
Culture Conference. doi: 10.13140/2.1.3089.1204

Roychoudhury, R. (2016). Ecofriendly Pest Maanagement for Food Security.

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/B978012803265700018X

Sanjai J. Parikh, B. R. (2012). Soil: The Foundation of Agriculture. (S. J. Parikh, Ed.)
California, Maryland. https://www.nature.com/scitable/knowledge/library/soil-the-
foundation-of-agriculture-84224268/

Sardare, M. & Admane, S. (2019). A REVIEW ON PLANT WITHOUT SOIL

HYDROPONICS. Retrieved from
http://citeseerx.ist.psu.edu/viewdoc/download?
doi=10.1.1.677.1105&rep=rep1&ty pe=pdf

S. Ghosh, S. N. (2021). Neem oil as natural pesticide: Pseudo ternary diagram and
computational study (Vol. 98). India: Elsevier B.V.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0019452221000881.

11
S. M. Nuruzzaman Manik, G. P. (2019). Soil and Crop Management Practices to
Minimize the Impact of Waterlogging on Crop Productivity. (I. Arduini, Ed.)
Australia, China. https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpls.2019.00140/full

Subbalakshmi Lokanadhan, P. M. (2012). Neem products and their agricultural

applications. http://www.jbiopest.com/users/lw8/efiles/vol_5_0_72_76f.pdf

APPENDICES

12
 APPENDIX A

CHAPTER I

Background of the Study

Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) is one of the most commonly grown hydroponic vegetables.

It is globally important to cool season leafy vegetables. It is taken as synonym of

“salads” and contains about 6-19% mineral elements on the dry weight basis. Among

other vegetables, it is the richest source of calcium and the second greatest source of

nutrients after spinach. The most important crop in the group of leafy vegetables is

Lactuca sativa (Lettuce). It is a member of the Asteraceae family, which is estimated to

be the largest plant family with between 23,000 and 30,000 species (Bayer & Starr,

1998).

According to (Perez et al., 2009) In the Philippines, the availability of good-quality

soil is gradually dwindling. Soil degradation has become a major ecological and

agricultural problem in both urban and rural areas. Soil erosion is the most common and

well-studied type of soil degradation in the Philippines, yet estimates of the rate of soil

loss are very diverse due to the various approaches utilized and the various

environmental conditions. Other types of soil deterioration, such as chemical and

physical soil degradation, have received very little attention.

As the world’s population expands, so does the need for various things, particularly

food products. A food crisis is projected in the future years as a result of this rising

demand. Other approaches, such as farming methods and food sources, must be used

to avoid such catastrophes (Gashgari et al., 2018). Hydroponics has been proven to be

13
a practical way of growing vegetables (tomatoes, lettuce, cucumbers, and peppers) as

well as ornamental plants like herbs, roses, freesia, and foliage plants. The demand for

hydroponically grown produce has exploded in recent years as a result of the methyl

bromide prohibition in soil growth (Dunn,2013).

Hydroponic food production, or growing food without soil, is increasing worldwide

and seems to have a positive overtone as consumers are becoming more aware of the

environmental benefits (Jensen, 1999). Hydroponics can be grown in desert or urban

environments, independent of soil quality, making it ideal for growing food closer to

consumers (Bellows et al., 2003). The hydroponic system has various advantages,

including water conservation, year-round production, increased yields, and reduced

pesticide use (Resh & Howard, 2012). Additionally, hydroponic fruits and vegetables

have been documented in the literature as having higher nutritional value and more

desirable sensory attributes compared to soil grown produce (Buchanan & Omaye,

2013; Gichuhi, et al., 2009; Selma et Al., 2012; Sgherri et al., 2010).

Plants can be cultivated solely in a nutrient solution (liquid culture) or with the help of

an inert media (aggregate culture). All of the nutritional requirements of the plants are

met in both systems by irrigation water (Kaise & Ernst, 2016). Currently, soilless

agriculture techniques based on hydroponic solution (such as floating systems, nutrient

film technology (also known as NFT) – or aeroponics are used in around 3.5 percent of

the global area grown under tunnels and greenhouses for vegetable production

(Hickman, 2016).

According to growers, hydroponic systems help them in expanding their ability for

continuous production in a short growing period, require less space, and plants can be

14
produced anywhere, i.e., in small spaces with a controlled growth environment. Growers

often reply that hydroponics always allows them to have higher productivity and yields

without any constraints of climate and weather conditions. In addition, growers often

claim that the quality of hydroponic produce is superior because it uses a highly

controlled environment and enables a more homogeneous production without any loss

of water and nutrients (Aiser,2018).

The researchers must make it clear that the purpose of this study is to determine if

hydroponics will be a better alternative or whether traditional soil-growing will continue

to be superior. The impacts of hydroponics will be determined in this study, which may

aid those living in poverty and, in the long run, address family famine in the Philippines.

15
Objectives of the Study

This study aims to:

a. Compare the growth of Iceberg Lettuce in Soil setup and Kratky setup

(Hydroponics setup)

Hypothesis of the Study

a. Alternative Hypothesis

The planting system has a significant influence on the height of Iceberg lettuce

plants.

b. Null Hypothesis

The planting system has no significant influence on the height of Iceberg lettuce

plants.

Significance of the Study

This study will greatly benefit the community, especially the gardeners who are just

starting to grow plants in either Soil or Hydroponics system, since many people are

already doing gardening as their hobby while we are in the midst of the pandemic, thus,

giving some advice to those who are starters when it comes to growing plants.

16
Scope and Delimitations

The focus of this study will be on comparing the growth of Iceberg lettuce plants

produced in soil and Kratky systems under the same seed type and growing

circumstances in both soil and Kratky systems. The effectiveness of the fertilizer

solution will be determined by examining the growth of the lettuce plant. From February

to March 2022, this research will be carried out in Maribulan, Alabel Sarangani

Province’s Purok Progressive.

Definition of Terms

Hydroponics

Kratky Hydroponics

Hydroponics is a type of horticulture and

a subset of hydroculture which involves

growing plants, usually crops, without

soil, by using mineral nutrient solutions

in an aqueous solvent.

The Kratky method is a passive

hydroponic technique for growing plants

Neem Oil
suspended above a reservoir of nutrient-
17
rich water. Because it is a non-

circulating technique, no additional

inputs of water or nutrients are needed

after the original application, and no

electricity, pumps, or water and oxygen Iceberg Lettuce

circulation systems are required.

Neem oil is a naturally occurring

pesticide found in seeds from the neem

tree. It is yellow to brown, has a bitter

taste, and a garlic/sulfur smell. It has Yamasaki Nutrient Solution is a

been used for hundreds of years to premium liquid fertilizer dissolved and
control pests and diseases. blended from Yamasaki Nutrients part A

14.8-0-20.5 and part B 8.8-9.2-28.2,

with the exact formula for potted plants

and hydroponics. It is a non-toxic

Yamasaki Nutrient Solution solution, free from excess salts and

chemical impurities that can affect plant

growth

Coco coir is an organic compound that

adds to the absorbency, water retention

and drainage of potting soil and is also a

fine amendment to garden soil. Use coir

on its own to sprout seeds, propagate

plants and provide support to the root

Coco Noir structures of hydroponically grown

plants.

18
Iceberg lettuce, also known as grows best in cool climates and requires

crisphead lettuce, has pale green leaves a long winter season to grow fully

and grows in cabbage-like bulbs. It

Clay pebbles are a growing medium that

is most often used in hydroponic

Clay pebbles
gardening. In this type of gardening, soil

is replaced by nutrient-rich water, but

the plants may still need a stabilizing

medium for their root structures to grow.

19
 APPENDIX B

CHAPTER II

Soil method

Throughout human history, our relationship with the soil has affected our ability to

cultivate crops and influenced the success of civilizations. This relationship between

humans, the earth, and food sources affirms soil as the foundation of agriculture. Of

these resources, soil and water have provided humans with the ability to produce food,

through agriculture, for our sustenance (Parikh ,2012).

By lowering the demand for new agricultural acreage, appropriate soil and crop

management strategies improve soil quality and crop output by improving ecological

and economic flexibility. (Setter and Belford, 1990; Tilman et al., 2002; Shaxson and

Barber, 2003).

Lettuce is able to grow on different types of soil, from light sand to heavy clay soils.

Preferably the soil pH should be between 5.5 and 7 for optimum growth. Also ideally

lettuce should be grown on soils with a high-water holding capacity and adequate

drainage, for proper root growth and plant performance. A loam-to-clay loam textured

soil is considered as the best soil for lettuce production, since sandy soil will require

higher levels of irrigation if the same lettuce production level is considered. Good

drainage should be ensured when growing lettuce( Agius, 2015).

20
 Lettuce grows well in a wide range of soils. If the soil is wet, it should have good

water retention capabilities but not be excessively heavy, as this may prevent machines

from planting, cropping, or harvesting in the field. It may be necessary to irrigate and

fertilize very light soils on a regular basis (Finch & Lane , 2014).

According to the study of (Resh & Howard, 2012) one important factor to consider when

choosing a system is labor cost. Soil-grown produce is more often cited for having

increased labor costs because of weeding, watering and spraying of pesticides.

Neem Oil

Bitter principles of neem oil have proven activity against agricultural pests. The neem

oil is also reported for its potential insecticidal and mosquito repellency properties. As

active principles of a non-edible neem oil cannot be separated from oil itself, formulating

microemulsions of neem oil have a promising future. Microemulsions are preferred over

conventionally used pesticide systems like for their long-term thermodynamic stability,

safety, low viscosity, cost economy and aesthetic appeal (S. Ghosh, 2021).

Neem oil contains at least 100 biologically active compounds. Other components

present include meliantriol, nimbin, nimbidin, nimbinin, nimbolides, fatty acids (oleic,

stearic, and palmitic), and salannin. The main neem product is the oil extracted from the

seeds by different techniques. The other parts of the neem tree contain less

azadirachtin, but are also used for oil extraction (Nicoletti et al., 2012).

It has been suggested that the content of azadirachtin in the seeds can be increased

by artificial infection with arbuscular mycorrhiza (Venkateswarlu et al., 2008).

Neem has been used in folk medicine for the treatment of conditions such as

malaria, ulcers, cardiovascular disease, and skin problems. Despite the limited

existence of clinical trials to support therapeutic claims, the use of neem has expanded

over time, and it is an important component of Ayurvedic medicine (medical knowledge

21
developed in India about 7000 years ago; Girish and Shankara Bhat, 2008; Ogbuewu et

al., 2011).

Neem has acquired commercial recognition due to its various beneficial properties,

which have been extensively investigated over time. Compared to conventional

chemicals, which are generally persistent in the environment and highly toxic, botanical

pesticides are biodegradable and leave no harmful residues. In terms of commercial

applications, biopesticides can provide substantial economic advantages, since the

infrastructure required is inexpensive, compared to conventional pesticides (Pant et al.,

2016).

Neem (Azadirachta indica A. Juss) is recognized worldwide as a tree native to India

and a wonder tree for its unique pest control properties. These exert pronounced

behavioral and physiological effects on insect pests of 15 orders. Azadirachtin is the

major limonoid exerting antifeedant effect. The effect varies with insect species and is

dose dependent. The growth-regulating effects are more consistent on insects. Neem is

safe for mammals with low toxicity to predators and parasitoids used for biocontrol of

pests. Neem combines well with chemical, botanical, and microbial pesticides and is

regarded as a “biorational pesticide” for integrated pest management (IPM).

(Roychoudhury, 2016)

Hydroponics

Soilless culture is a technique of providing water and nutrients to plants that does

not require the use of soil. In response to ongoing researches, many types of soilless

planting systems, including hydroponics, have been developed. Hydroponics is a

method of growing plants in which the roots are immersed in nutrient solution, either

with or without the use of a soilless growing medium (Sardare & Mamta, 2013). As

22
traditional soil planting can limit plant growth due to pests, diseases, and a lack of fertile

soil, hydroponics, a soilless planting method, is a significant alternative to soil culture.

Hydroponics, as a modern planting method, is expected to have both advantages

and limitations over traditional soil planting. Compared to traditional soil planting,

hydroponics distributes nutrients to plants faster, allowing them to grow more quickly.

This planting technique also prevents the risk of soil-borne pests and diseases, as well

as the development of weeds (Sardare & Mamta, 2013). It is also less expensive, takes

up less space, and does not require soil for the plants to grow (Gashgari, et al., 2018).

Plants grown in hydroponics can also be of greater quality and yield more when

nutrients are controlled efficiently (Sardare & Mamta, 2013). Some studies have also

observed no significant difference between hydroponically grown plants and soil grown

ones (Gashgari, et al., 2018).

Despite its numerous benefits, hydroponics has limitations in terms of plant

development. Limitations include the frequent changing of pH levels, and the thorough

maintenance of the system. It is also more expensive to set up at first, and plants are

more vulnerable if nutrient delivery is not properly regulated (Sardare & Mamta, 2013).

System failure or root rot can also pose a threat to the development of the plants.

Although hydroponics has limits when compared to traditional soil planting, the

limitations of hydroponics are expected to improve over time with the use of ongoing

research and modern technologies (Sardare & Mamta, 2013).

Kratky Hydroponics

A Cuboid shaped container with an open top growing system is filled with 4-8

liters of nutrient solution per plant prior to its planting (Kratky, 2009). Plant is either

seeded or transplanted to the net pots tapered in the cover of the container
23
containing a growing medium (Kratky, 2009). The containers are supported by the

tank cover such that their lower portion is initially immersed in nutrient solution.

Plants are automatically watered, because the net pots are moisturized by capillary

action (Kratky, 2009). Plants growth reduces the nutrient solution, thus creating an

expanding moist air space (Kratky, 2009). Direct capillary wetting of the substrate is

no longer possible at some point, but the growing root system can take nutrient

solution from the tank. Roots occupying the moist air space above the solution have

been described as oxygen roots whose main function is aeration; these roots

experience vigorous lateral and branching growth (Imai, 1987). Roots extending into

the nutrient solution are considered to be water and nutrient roots that have limited

elongation capabilities, because the oxygen content of the nutrient solution becomes

progressively lower with depth (Kratky, 2009). The nutrient solution level may

remain the same or be lowered, but it should not be raised because submerging the

oxygen roots will cause the plant to ‘drown’ (Kratky, 2009).

Related Studies

Accoording to (Raneem Gashgari 2018), as the world’s population grows, the

demand and need for different products, especially food products, grow as well.

Because of this growing demand, there will be an expected food crisis in the coming

years. To prevent that crisis from happening, other methods -farming methods- and

sources of food must be used.

Hydroponic food production, or growing food without soil, is increasing worldwide ad

seem to have a positive overtone as consumers are becoming more aware of the

environmental benefits (Jensen, 1999). Hydroponics can be grown in arid or urban

conditions regardless of soil quality, making hydroponics advantageous for growing food

closer to the consumer (Bellows et al., 2003). The hydroponic system has several
24
advantages such as; conserving water, allowing for year-round production, increasing

yields, and minimizing use of pesticides (Resh & Howard, 2012).

APPENDIX C

CHAPTER III

Figure No. 1 Flowchart of Procedures

Materials

The following materials will be used in this study: Seeds of Iceberg Lettuce (Lactuca

Sativa), Nutrient Solution, Net pots, water, coco noir, clay pebbles, pH meter, plastic

bottles, soil, and tape measure.

Study Site and Duration of the Study

The preparation of the materials used will be done at Purok Progressive, Maribulan,

Alabel Sarangani Province including the planting of the lettuce seeds(Iceberg Lettuce),

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the collection of data, and the synthesis of the results. This study will be conducted from

February to March 2022.

Research Design

This study will focus on the comparison of the growth of Iceberg Lettuce plants grown

in soil and Kratky systems under the same seed type and growing conditions. The

height will be measured to determine the growth of the lettuce plants. This study will be

using an experimental research design.

Preparation of Soil Based Planting System

Figure No. 2 Soil Based Planting System

For the soil-based planting system, there will be three replicates. The researchers

will use three similar-sized pots filled with soil wherein each will have one lettuce seed

planted about 1 cm inside. Every three days, 3 mL of water will be added to the

replicates. After three weeks, the replicates will be introduced to water containing

nutrients from Solutions A and B.

Preparation of Soil Pre Planting System (For Kratky Hydroponics)

Figure No. 3 Soil Pre Planting System (For Kratky Hydroponics)

The researchers will use a rectangular pot filled with soil. Three lettuce seeds will be

planted and will be grown in the same manner as the replicates for the soil system.

They will be exposed to plain water only. The seeds will be transplanted after three

weeks, and only then will they be introduced to the Kratky system.

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Preparation of Kratky Planting System

Figure No. 4 Kratky Hydroponics Planting System

For the Kratky planting system, there will be three replicates. Three equal-sized

plastic bottles will be cut in half. The bottom halves of the bottles will be used, with each

containing one seedling. The researchers chose coco coir and clay pebbles as the

hydroponic substrate of the lettuce seedlings. The net pot will be positioned halfway into

the bottle, filled with the growing medium and the transplanted lettuce. The upper

portion of the growing media will be coco coir, while the lowest portion will be clay

pebbles. The researchers will only fill the bottle partly with nutrient solution, up to a level

where the clay pebbles are. The lower part of the roots will be immersed in nutrient

solution, where it will collect water and nutrients, while the upper part will be exposed to

humid air and absorb oxygen.

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Transplantation of Iceberg Lettuce Seedlings to Kratky Planting System

The researchers will remove the lettuce seedlings from the soil after three weeks.

Following that, the roots will be dipped in water to remove any remaining soil. Following

that, neem oil will be used to remove any existing pests. The researchers will transplant

the seedlings into separate net pots filled with coco coir after the roots are free of soil.

Mixing of Nutrient Solutions

The researchers will be using Yamasaki Nutrient Solution, which must be purchased

online. According to the specification, the NPK ratio of Solution Part A is 14.8-0-20.5,

while the NPK ratio of Solution Part B is 8.8-9.2-28.2. As per the solution's instructions,

the researchers will add 2.0 ml of Solutions A and B equally, which is the suggested

amount for leafy plants, with 3 ml water to create the nutrient solution. After three

weeks, the nutrient solution will be used for the replicates in both planting systems. The

nutrition solution for the Kratky planting system replicates will be changed every 7 to 10

days to prevent the formation of bacteria and pests.

Monitoring and Controlling of pH Level

The pH of the nutrient solution, which is composed of Solutions Part A and B mixed

with water, should be between 5.5 and 6.5. A pH meter will be used to measure the pH

level. Every three days, the pH of the nutrient solution used for the replicates in the soil

planting system will be monitored. The pH of the nutrient solution used for the Kratky

planting system replicates will be checked every 7 to 10 days. If necessary, the

researchers will add mainly water to regulate the pH level of the nutrient solution.

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Measuring the Height of Iceberg Lettuce Plants

There are two types of planting systems in the study. Each planting system has

three replicates. The replicates in both planting systems will go through different

planting procedures but will be exposed to the same experimental settings in the study

site. After three weeks, the researchers will introduce the nutrient solution to the

replicates in both planting systems. The height of the plants will be measured only after

the replicates have been exposed to the solution. The researchers will measure the

height of the lettuce plants for 30 days using a tape measure.

Synthesis of results

The data from the three replicates from each planting scheme will be collected and

combined to present the findings. The data of soil-grown lettuce plants will be compared

to the data of hydroponically grown lettuce plants, with the aim to conclude from the

findings.

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 APPENDIX D

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Agius, C. (2015). The yield and quality of lettuce crop, grown in different growing media.
Carlos Agius.
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/314121919_The_yield_and_quality_of_
lettuce_crop_grown_in_different_growing_media

Chenin Treftz, S. T. (2015). COMPARISION BETWEEN HYDROPONIC AND SOIL

SYSTEMS FOR GROWING. USA.
https://naes.agnt.unr.edu/PMS/Pubs/309_2017_03.pdf

Estefânia V. R. Campos, J. L. (2016 ). Neem Oil and Crop Protection: From Now to the
Future. (S. Araújo, Ed.) Sorocaba, Brazil.
http://www.jbiopest.com/users/lw8/efiles/vol_5_0_72_76f.pdf

Gashgari, R., Alharbi, K., Mughrbil, K., Jan, A., & Glolam, A. (2018). Comparison
between Growing Plants in Hydroponic System and Soil Based System.
Paper presented at the 4th World Congress on Mechanical, Chemical, and
Material Engineering, Madrid, Spain. doi: 10.11159/icmie18.131

Imai, H. (1987) . AVRDC non-circulating hydroponic system. Pp. 109-122. In: C.C. Tu
And T.F. Sheen (eds.) Proc. Symposium on horticultural production under
structure. Taiwan Agr. Res. Inst. Taichung.

Kratky, B.A. (2009). Three non-circulating hydroponic methods for growing lettuce.
Proceedings of the International Symposium on Soilless Culture and
Hydroponics. Acta. Hort. 843:65-72.

Kratky, B. & Horticulturist. (2004). A Suspended Pot, Non-Circulating Hydroponic

Method. Acta Hort., 648, 83-89. Paper presented at the South Pacific Soilless
Culture Conference. doi: 10.13140/2.1.3089.1204

Roychoudhury, R. (2016). Ecofriendly Pest Maanagement for Food Security.

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/B978012803265700018X

Sanjai J. Parikh, B. R. (2012). Soil: The Foundation of Agriculture. (S. J. Parikh, Ed.)
California, Maryland. https://www.nature.com/scitable/knowledge/library/soil-the-
foundation-of-agriculture-84224268/

Sardare, M. & Admane, S. (2019). A REVIEW ON PLANT WITHOUT SOIL

HYDROPONICS. Retrieved from
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doi=10.1.1.677.1105&rep=rep1&ty pe=pdf

S. Ghosh, S. N. (2021). Neem oil as natural pesticide: Pseudo ternary diagram and
computational study (Vol. 98). India: Elsevier B.V.
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S. M. Nuruzzaman Manik, G. P. (2019). Soil and Crop Management Practices to

Minimize the Impact of Waterlogging on Crop Productivity. (I. Arduini, Ed.)
Australia, China. https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpls.2019.00140/full

Subbalakshmi Lokanadhan, P. M. (2012). Neem products and their agricultural

applications. http://www.jbiopest.com/users/lw8/efiles/vol_5_0_72_76f.pdf

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 APPENDIX E

BUDGETARY PROPOSAL

Source Quantity Material Price (PhP)

Unit Final
Price Price

1 Yamasaki Nutrition Solution - 200.00

10 Net pots 5.00 50.00

2 Iceberg Lettuce seeds 59.75 119.50

Local

1 Coco Noir - 99.00

1 Pots - 39.75

1 Neem Oil - 249.00

1 Clay Pebbles - 100.00

Total 857.25

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