Utilization of varying levels of fermented kakawate leaf extract as nutrient supplement in hydroponic lettuce production

Abstract

This study investigated the effects of fermented kakawate (Gliricidia sepium) plant juice (FPJ) as a supplemental nutrient solution in hydroponic lettuce (Lactuca sativa) production. The primary objective was to determine the growth response, yield performance, and economic viability of lettuce grown with varying rates of kakawate FPJ combined with reduced concentrations of commercial SNAP nutrient solution. The experiment was laid out in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with four treatments replicated four times: 100% SNAP solution (control), and 90% SNAP solution supplemented with 25 ml, 50 ml, and 75 ml of fermented kakawate extract. Results showed that the application of 50 ml FPJ with 90% SNAP solution significantly improved plant height (16.64 cm), root length (16.33 cm), number of leaves (35), and fresh weight (69.25 g) compared to the control. This treatment also yielded the highest net income (₱1,618) and return on investment (206.91%). The study concluded that 50 ml of fermented kakawate extract is the optimal dosage for enhancing lettuce growth and economic return in a hydroponic system. The findings support the use of locally available, low-cost organic inputs like kakawate FPJ as sustainable alternatives to synthetic nutrient solutions, particularly for small-scale and resource-limited farmers.