Response of Gerbera to Calcium in Hydroponics

Abstract

ABSTRACT The aim of this work, was to explore the potential of hydroponics system in Gerbera jamesonii cultivation (‘Amaretto’ and ‘Darling’ varieties), using the Steiner nutrient solution that contains 9 meq L− 1 of calcium (Ca2 +) plus two modified nutrient solutions with 6, and 12 meq Ca2 +· L− 1 on a red volcanic rock substrate known in Mexico as “tezontle”,. Physiological and productivity parameters, and quality of inflorescence produced during 91 d were analyzed. Additionally, calcium in leaves, scapes, and capitula was quantified. The results showed the importance of calcium in gerbera cultivation. Calcium concentration in leaves indicated that ion assimilation was proportional to that supplied in the nutrient solution. It was found that calcium level of 6 meq Ca2 + L− 1 reduced leaf area, plant dry weight, and the number of inflorescences produced per plant during 91 d by 74% in ‘Amaretto’ and 61% in ‘Darling’ varieties with respect to the control. Likewise, this dose had effect on quality; reducing the diameter of the capitulum and scape length with respect to 9 and 12 meq Ca2 +· L− 1 The best calcium dose for ‘Amaretto’ was 12 meq L− 1Ca2+, and for ‘Darling’ 9 meq Ca2 +· L− 1, which showed the greatest dry mass weight, flower production, and quality of the inflorescence, related to high CO2 net assimilation rates.