Mainstreaming Low-Cost Hydroponics Using Fermented Plant Juice for Sustainable Lettuce Production in Urban Farming
Zandra Anciano Quirante, Eric Randy R. Politud
International Journal of Multidisciplinary Applied Business and Education Research
Urban Farm DB summary
A mixed-methods study assessed the viability of a low-cost hydroponic system using locally sourced Fermented Plant Juice (FPJ) as an organic input for lettuce production aimed at food security in the Zamboanga Peninsula, Philippines, examining acceptability, growth performance and economic feasibility. Estrosa and Olmetie lettuce varieties showed the best growth performance; nitrate was undetectable in Estrosa and Green Wave, while Olmetie and Invicta absorbed more nitrate with FPJ use, though all levels stayed within international safety limits and cadmium was not detected, while limited technical knowledge, material access and capital were identified as barriers to adoption.