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Wheat response to differences in water and nutritional status between zeoponic and hydroponic growth systemsHydroponic culture has traditionally been used for controlled environment life support systems (CELSS) because the optimal environment for roots supports high growth rates. Recent developments in zeoponic substrate and microporous tube irrigation (ZPT) also offer high control of the root environment. This study compared the effect of differences in water and nutrient status of ZPT or hydroponic culture on growth and yield of wheat (Triticum aestivum L. cv. USU-Apogee). In a side-by-side test in a controlled environment, wheat was grown in ZPT and recirculating hydroponics to maturity. Water use by plants grown in both culture systems peaked at 15 to 20 L m-2 d-1 up to Day 40, after which it declined more rapidly for plants grown in ZPT culture due to earlier senescence of leaves. No consistent differences in water status were noted between plants grown in the two culture systems. Although yield was similar, harvest index was 28% lower for plants grown in ZPT than in hydroponic culture. Sterile green tillers made up 12 and 0% of the biomass of plants grown in ZPT and hydroponic culture, respectively. Differences in biomass partitioning were attributed primarily to NH4-N nutrition of plants grown in ZPT compared with NO3-N in hydroponic nutrient solution. It is probable that NH4-N-induced Ca deficiency produced excess tillering and lower harvest index for plants grown in ZPT culture. These results suggest that further refinements in zeoponic substrate would make ZPT culture a viable alternative for achieving high productivity in a CELSS.
Document ID
20040088816
Acquisition Source
Johnson Space Center
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
External Source(s)
Authors
Steinberg, S. L.
(NASA Johnson Space Center Houston TX United States)
Ming, D. W.
Henderson, K. E.
Carrier, C.
Gruener, J. E.
Barta, D. J.
Henninger, D. L.
Date Acquired
August 21, 2013
Publication Date
March 1, 2000
Publication Information
Publication: Agronomy journal
Volume: 92
Issue: 2
ISSN: 0002-1962
Subject Category
Man/System Technology And Life Support
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other
Keywords
NASA Center JSC
NASA Discipline Life Support Systems

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