Nutrient Solutions on Yield and Quality of Basil and Cress

Abstract

Hydroponics is a common culture method for production of herbs. It is necessary to determine optimal ranges of elements in nutrient solutions. Four nutrient solutions, with different total nitrogen concentrations and ammonium-to-nitrate ratios were used to determine effects on yield and quality of basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) and cress (Lepidium sativum L.). Increasing ammonium benefited cress but not basil. Increasing nitrate positively affected basil. Cress and basil do not appear to need high levels of nutrients for production using hydroponics.