Effect of Growing Media on the Growth of Pak Choy (Brassica rapa L.) in NFT Hydroponic System

Abstract

Pak choy (Brassica rapa L.) is a widely popular vegetable in Indonesia that requires precise nutrient availability and stable environmental conditions for optimal development. This research aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of different growing media on the growth and productivity of pak choy within a Nutrient Film Technique (NFT) hydroponic system at RH Farm, Bogor. The study maintained critical environmental parameters, including a pH range of 5.5–6.5 and Electrical Conductivity (EC) levels between 1.5–2.5 mS/cm, to ensure consistent nutrient delivery. A quantitative approach compared two types of media: rockwool and cocopeat, using an independent samples t-test for data analysis. Growth parameters were recorded weekly from 7 to 30 Days After Transplanting (DAT), alongside final measurements of biomass accumulation.The results demonstrated that the choice of growing media significantly influenced all observed parameters (p < 0.001). Cocopeat consistently outperformed rockwool, achieving an average final height of 25 cm and a fresh weight of 167 grams, nearly double the 93 grams produced by rockwool. This superior performance is attributed to cocopeat’s high Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC) and excellent water retention, which ensures stable nutrient supply and cell turgidity within the rhizosphere. In conclusion, cocopeat is a more effective and sustainable medium for optimizing pak choy productivity in NFT systems, offering significant advantages for commercial hydroponic enterprises.