Scientific Area
Organic medium enclosed trough system enhances the growth, yield and nutritional composition of Amaranth species
ID: 613 / 320
Category: Abstract
Track: Pending
Proposed Symposium Title: Organic medium enclosed trough system enhances the growth, yield and nutritional composition of Amaranth species
Authors:
Maeleletse G. Mopai*, Semakaleng Mpai, Ashwell R. Ndhlala
Affiliations: Department of Plant Production, Soil Sciences and Agricultural Engineering, University of Limpopo, Limpopo Province, South Africa
Abstract:
Amaranth species are a highly popular group of indigenous leafy vegetables (ILVs). The organic medium enclosed trough (OMET) system is a non-drainable vegetable growing technique. The aim of the study was to investigate the effects of the OMET system on growth and yield of two Amaranth species; A. caudatus and A. cruentus. Data collected include seedling height, stem diameter and fresh biomass. The nutritional composition of Amaranth species was also determined after harvesting. T-test at 5% level of significance was used to analyse data using computer statistical software, Statistix 10.0.There was a significant difference (p≤0.05) in growth and yield attributes between the same Amaranth species grown under both OMET and non-OMET (control) system. The OMET system and A. cruentus showed the highest plant height, stem diameter, biomass, and some nutrients including %protein, Ca, P, Cu, Se, Zn compared to A. caudatus. In contrast, A. caudatus was predominated by elements such Mg, K, Mn, and Fe. The OMET system utilized less water than the non-OMET system, making it a brilliant strategy to conserve water and utilize it sustainably, effectively and efficiently while producing quality crops and significant biomass. The OMET system can be regarded as a growing technique that can contribute to mitigate the climate change impacts on the production of vegetables.