Effect of Cocopeat Particle Size on the Optimum Growth of Nursery Plants for Greenhouse Vegetables

Abstract: The study investigates how varying particle sizes of Cocopeat influence the growth of nursery plants for greenhouse vegetables. This research aims to determine the ideal particle size for optimizing seedling health and productivity by analyzing growth parameters such as germination rates, seedling height, and leaf production.

Keywords: Cocopeat, Particle Size, Seedling Growth, Greenhouse Vegetables, Nursery Plants

1. Introduction

1.1 Background:

Cocopeat is a widely used growing medium in soilless cultivation due to its sustainable nature and beneficial properties (Handreck & Black, 2002). Particle size is known to impact plant growth, affecting factors like water retention and root development (Kang et al., 2004).


1.2 Objectives:
  • To assess the effect of different particle sizes of Cocopeat on the growth of nursery plants.
  • To identify the optimal particle size for maximizing seedling growth in greenhouse vegetables.

1.3 Hypothesis:

Variations in Cocopeat particle size will significantly affect seedling growth parameters, with a specific size range providing the most beneficial conditions for plant development.



2. Materials and Methods

2.1 Cocopeat Preparation:

Cocopeat was sieved to produce three particle size categories: fine (≤ 0.5 mm), medium (0.5 mm - 3 mm), and coarse (≥ 4 mm). Each size was used to prepare growing media for the experiment.


2.2 Experimental Design:
  • Growing Medium Analysis: Physical and chemical properties of each particle size were measured, including bulk density, water retention, and air porosity (De Boodt et al., 1972).
  • Plant Material: Seeds of selected greenhouse vegetables (tomato, bell pepper, cucumber, cabbage) were planted in pots with each particle size category.
  • Growing Conditions: The experiment was conducted in a controlled greenhouse environment with standard light, temperature, and humidity conditions.


2.3 Measurement Parameters:
  • Germination Rate: Percentage of seeds germinated in each medium.
  • Seedling Height: Average height of seedlings measured weekly.
  • Leaf Production: Number of leaves per seedling recorded bi-weekly.
  • Growth Rate: Growth rate calculated from initial to final measurement.

3. Results


3.1 Germination Rate:
  • Tomato: Medium particles yielded the highest germination rate (95%).
  • Bell Pepper: Medium particles also resulted in the highest germination rate (88%).
  • Cucumber: Fine particles showed the highest germination rate (84%).
  • Cabbage: Fine particles achieved the highest germination rate (94%).

3.2 Seedling Height:
  • Tomato: Medium particles led to the tallest seedlings (17.2 cm).
  • Bell Pepper: Medium particles resulted in the tallest seedlings (20.3 cm).
  • Cucumber: Medium particles supported the tallest seedlings (14.3 cm).
  • Cabbage: Medium particles showed the tallest seedlings (8.0 cm).

3.3 Leaf Production:
  • Tomato: Medium particles produced the highest number of leaves (7.2).
  • Bell Pepper: Medium particles led to the highest leaf count (6.1).
  • Cucumber: Fine particles resulted in the highest leaf count (4.8).
  • Cabbage: Fine particles produced the most leaves (6.5).

4. Discussion

4.1 Impact of Particle Size:
  • Medium Particles: Generally optimal for most vegetable seedlings due to balanced water retention and air porosity (Handreck, 1992).
  • Fine Particles: Beneficial for specific crops like cabbage and cucumber, likely due to better seed-to-media contact and higher water retention.
  • Coarse Particles: Less favorable conditions observed due to reduced water retention and nutrient availability.

4.2 Implications for Greenhouse Production:

Selecting the appropriate particle size can enhance seedling development, leading to stronger plants and potentially higher yields


5. Conclusion

5.1 Summary:

Medium-sized Cocopeat particles are recommended for most greenhouse vegetables. However, fine particles may be more suitable for certain crops like cucumber and cabbage


6. References

  • De Boodt, M., Verdonck, O., & Deleersnyder, P. (1972). Physical Properties of Peat-based Growing Media. Soil Science Society of America Journal, 36(3), 455-458.
  • Handreck, K. A. (1992). Soilless Cultivation: A Guide for Growers. Australian Journal of Soil Research, 30(5), 625-641.
  • Handreck, K. A., & Black, N. D. (2002). Growing Media for Ornamental Plants and Turf. University of Western Australia Press.
  • Kang, Y., Niu, G., & Carey, E. (2004). Physical Properties of Growing Media. HortScience, 39(3), 487-491.