Title:

Effects of Root-Zone Aeration on Root Development and Yield of Greenhouse Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.)

Oxygen limitation (root-zone hypoxia) is a key but often overlooked constraint in soilless systems, especially in substrates with high water-holding capacity that restrict gas diffusion. This study tested the hypothesis that very low, energy-efficient root-zone aeration can alleviate hypoxia and improve lettuce growth. Lettuce was grown in four substrates under aerated and non-aerated conditions. Aeration enhanced root architecture, nutrient uptake, and plant performance, with the highest marketable head mass (248 g plant ¹), representing ~147% higher yield than non-aerated (100.34 g plant⁻¹). Results confirmed that the new techniques effectively mitigate hypoxia and improve productivity.

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