Can cattail fibers effectively replace peat in soilless growing media?

In recent years, the use of plant fibers as a substitute for peat in growing media has gained considerable attention.
To explore this potential, we conducted a study to investigate the viability of plant fibers of cattails (Typha spp.) as a growing substrate and their capacity to replace peat at varying percentages (10, 20, 30, 40%) by volume.
Additionally, we examined the effects of three levels of nitrogen application (0, 100 and 200 ppm) on plant and root growth of lettuce.
Our results indicated that media mixes of Typha at low volumes (10 and 20%) performed better in terms of plant growth (height, spread, leaves/plant, chlorophyll content, dry weight) and root development.
Moreover, pH, EC, nitrates, phosphates, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and sodium were also better managed in the root zone of these plants.
Notably, 10% volume mix of Typha with 90% peat was on par with control plants grown in 100% peat, and 70% peat:30% perlite (volume/volume) mixes.
Our study revealed that increasing the Typha content in the media resulted in greater nitrogen immobilization due to microbial activity.
As a result, the application of nitrogen at 200 ppm resulted in better plant performance than 100 and 0 ppm.
Conversely, blends of 30 and 40% Typha had a significantly negative impact on plant and root growth, regardless of nitrogen application levels.

IV Asian Horticultural Congress – AHC2023

P. Singh

cattails, soilless growing media, plant fibers, plant growth and development

https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHortic.2024.1404.28