Production, water consumption and nutrient content of Chinese cabbage grown hydroponically in brackish water

ABSTRACTUnderground water reserves in the semi-arid region of Brazil are stored in the crystal formations that in large part have high concentrations of salt. However, the scarcity of this resource makes the use of this water necessary for various activities, including agriculture. The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of brackish water on the electrical conductivity and pH of the nutrient solution, and on the production, water consumption and the uptake of nutrients in Chinese cabbage (Brassica pekinensis L.) under a hydroponic system. The experimental design was completely randomised, with four replications and six levels of water salinity (0.2, 1.2, 2.2, 3.2, 4.2 and 5.2 dS m-1), obtained by adding NaCl to the local water supply, with this water being used to prepare the nutrient solution and to make up the volume lost through evapotranspiration. The results showed that with the exception of the treatment at the lowest salinity, there was a tendency to increased electrical conductivity of the nutrient solution with the increasing salinity of the water; that the pH of the nutrient solution remained within the normal range throughout the cycle; that with the increasing salinity of the solution there was a reduction in all growth and production variables under analysis, in water consumption, and in leaf N, K, Ca and Mg, and an increase in leaf concentrations of Na and Cl. It is possible to use brackish water for the production of Chinese cabbage when grown hydroponically as an alternative for those producers who have an available supply of brackish water and a restricted supply of fresh water, however with a reduction in productivity.