THE EFFECT OF THE SUBSTRATE ON THE FRUIT QUALITY OF HYDROPONICALLY GROWN MELONS (CUCUMIS MELO, L).

The effects of three substrates (perlite, rockwool, sand) and soil as control, on sweet melon fruit quality and production were studied in open soilless culture systems.
Rockwool and perlite were the most productive substrates with yields of 3.0 kg/plant and 2.9 kg/plant respectively.
Sand yielded 2.5 kg/plant and soil gave the lowest yield of 2.2 kg/plant.
The heaviest average fruit weights were obtained from rockwool (1031 g), followed by perlite (974 g), sand (842 g) and soil (734 g). Fruit shape index showed that fruits from soil were more rounded.
The firmest fruits were obtained from perlite and rockwool, followed by sand and soil.
Dry matter content of the fruit was highest in the case of soil, followed by perlite and sand.
The lowest dry matter was found in rockwool.
Total soluble solids (TSS) and pH were not affected by substrate.
Total acidity was highest in rockwool followed by sand, perlite and soil.
A sensory panel test concluded that fruit quality of plants grown on soilless substrates was similar to those produce in soil.

International Symposium on Quality of Fruit and Vegetables: Influence of Pre- and Post- Harvest Factors and Technology

H.G. Guler, C. Olympios, D. Gerasopoulos

https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHortic.1995.379.32