Effect of Different Organic Growth Media on Lettuce Yield and Growth Parameters

Abstract

This study investigated the effect of different organic growth media on lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) yield and growth parameters under a controlled greenhouse environment at the Department of Crop Production, Federal Polytechnic Bali, Taraba State, Nigeria. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with four replications, evaluating four organic growth media—Coconut Peat, Rice Hulls, Groundnut Hull, and Wood Husk. Each growth medium was enriched with compost and burnt rice hulls to enhance nutrient content and structural stability. Data were collected on lettuce yield, plant height, leaf area, and root growth, and analyzed using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) followed by Tukey’s HSD test for mean separation at a 5% significance level. Results revealed that Groundnut Hull exhibited superior performance across all measured parameters, recording the highest lettuce yield (37.86 g/plant), plant height (14.54 cm), leaf area (104.688 cm²), and root growth (5.94 cm). The ANOVA results (p < 0.05) confirmed significant differences among the tested media, indicating that Groundnut Hull significantly enhanced lettuce growth and productivity compared to Coconut Peat, Rice Hulls, and Wood Husk. The findings demonstrate that Groundnut Hull serves as an effective and sustainable organic growth medium for soilless farming systems, promoting improved yield and growth performance in lettuce production. This study contributes valuable insights toward optimizing eco-friendly and resource-efficient greenhouse cultivation, supporting sustainable agriculture and urban food production initiatives.