Effect of Organic Particulate Matter on Vegetable Crops and their Control Potentials

Abstract

Air pollution has an impact, include impact to the plants. The adverse effects of air pollution have been associated with three major sources. They are gaseous pollutant and particulates from fossil fuels, manufacturing plants and vehicles. Many studies reveal that plants absorb particulate pollutants can cause damage or decline in growth. This study analysed the effects of organic particulate matter exposure on vegetable crops that were lettuce (Lactuta sativa L) and cucumber (Cucumis sativus L). Thus from the research we can control vegetable crops from particulate matter pollution. Growth parameters include the number of leaves, plant height, fresh weight, dry weight, number of chlorophyll and stomata index. This research was conducted on Padjadjaran University Greenhouse, Jatinangor. Lettuce and cucumber were given three treatment, those were: plant was contaminated with organic particulate matter derived from clay, plant inside and outside the chamber were not contaminated. The results showed that organic particulate matter exposure more affects the growth of lettuce than cucumbers for the following parameters: plant height, dry weight and fresh weight. Control potentials of organic particulate matter include regulation management, reducing field burning of vegetable residue, and implementation of particulate matter control devices in industry and vehicles.