Effects of Ebb-and-flow System with Double-tier Bench on Growth and Yield of Hydroponically Grown Gymnocalycium mihanovichii ‘I-Hong’

Abstract

The Gymnocalycium mihanovichii has been an important export item of Korean flower industry for a long time. Although there is a high demand for grafted cactus from overseas, its production for export is limited. In this study, the growth and marketable yield characteristics of Gymnocalycium mihanovichii ‘I-Hong’ were compared between soil culture and ebb-and-flow hydroponic system with single- or double-tier bench. As a result, hydroponic methods with single-tier bench resulted in higher fresh weight and glove diameter compared to other cultivation methods. In the ebb-and-flow hydroponic system, hydroponic system with double-tier bench of grafted cactus traits has a lower growth rate than other cultivations. However, the hydroponic system with double-tier bench of grafted cactus significantly increased the yield. In conclusion, the yield from hydroponic system with double-tier bench was better than soil cultivation method. Although there were some differences in color depending on the cultivation method, it was considered that there was no difference in appearance of Gymnocalycium mihanovichii ‘I-Hong’. Our results suggest the cultivation methods to overcome production constraints, expand their exports, and improve the value-added characteristics of grafted cactus.