ORGANIC NUTRIENT SOLUTIONS IN PRODUCTION AND ANTIOXIDANT CAPACITY OF CUCUMBER FRUITS

Abstract

The aim of the current study was to evaluate the effect of organic nutrient solutions over yield, quality and antioxidant capacity of hydroponic cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) fruits produced under greenhouse conditions. The organic solutions used were compost and vermicompost teas, and the Steiner nutrient solution was used as control. Evaluated variables were: yield, quality, and antioxidant capacity of cucumber fruits. Nutritive solutions affected yield and antioxidant capacity of the produce. Steiner solution obtained a higher yield (41.8 - 44.4%) than organic nutritive solutions; however organic cucumber samples had higher antioxidant capacity. Compost tea treatment obtained the highest antioxidant capacity among all treatments, resulting 42% higher than inorganically fertilized produce. Compost tea is a viable alternative as a nutrient source in the production of hydroponic cucumber under greenhouse conditions with an improved nutraceutical quality.