Growing Basil Using Aquaponics and Special Fiber-Enhanced Soil

Jenn Hoskins
2nd August, 2024

Growing Basil Using Aquaponics and Special Fiber-Enhanced Soil

This study found that a peat-reduced soil substitute successfully supports the growth of Basil (Ocimum basilicum) (left) when irrigated with nutrient-rich water from intensive African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) (right) farming, offering a more sustainable alternative to traditional substrates.

Composite: Natural Science News / CC BY-SA. [Sources]
Adapted from photos by:

Key Findings

  • Researchers at the University of Rostock found that using Humicacid Fiber-Substrate (HFS) in plant pots can reduce peat use in aquaponics farming
  • Substituting 15% of the standard peat-based substrate with HFS resulted in basil plants with similar growth to those grown in traditional substrates
  • Basil plants grown with HFS had higher leaf width and green weight, and lower root dry weight compared to those grown in standard peat-based substrates
Agriculture, horticulture, and aquaponics face significant challenges in reducing the use of mineral fertilizers and peat to lower CO2 emissions and enhance sustainability. A recent study by researchers at the University of Rostock has explored a promising solution with the use of a three-phase natural fertilizer known as Humicacid Fiber-Substrate (HFS)[1]. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of HFS in reducing peat content in plant pots used for aquaponics farming, specifically focusing on the growth of basil (Ocimum basilicum). The study compared basil growth under three different conditions: (i) 100% standard media substrate ("Einheitserde," consisting of 80% white peat and 20% clay), (ii) 85% "Einheitserde" mixed with 15% HFS, and (iii) both conditions irrigated with aquaculture process waters from African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) production. The results showed that substituting 15% of the standard substrate with HFS and using intensive fish water led to comparable plant growth to a fertilizer solution control. Additionally, basil plants grown with HFS exhibited higher leaf width and leaf green weight and lower root dry weight compared to those grown in the standard substrate. The findings are significant in the context of a circular economy, which aims to maximize resource value indefinitely with minimal waste[2]. One of the critical challenges in establishing a circular bioeconomy is the sustainable production and use of biomass. In this study, HFS, made from natural regenerative organic and mineral fractions, aligns with the principles of a circular economy by potentially reducing the reliance on peat, a non-renewable resource. Furthermore, the study's results are particularly relevant given the need to minimize waste arising from food and agriculture and return it to the economy[2]. By using HFS, which incorporates organic and mineral fractions, the study demonstrates a practical application of sustainable biomass production in agriculture and aquaponics. Another noteworthy aspect of the study is its contribution to understanding how different substrates can affect plant nutrient uptake and growth under varying conditions. Previous research has shown that salinity stress negatively impacts plant growth and nutrient uptake, and the application of micronutrients like zinc (Zn) can ameliorate these effects[3]. While the current study did not focus on salinity stress, it highlights the importance of substrate composition and nutrient sources in optimizing plant growth. The use of aquaculture process waters in the study provides an alternative nutrient source that can be integrated into sustainable farming practices. Overall, the study by the University of Rostock suggests that substituting at least 15% of the peat substrate with HFS in aquaponics farming can maintain or even enhance basil growth while contributing to sustainability goals. This aligns with broader efforts to reduce the environmental impact of agriculture by minimizing the use of non-renewable resources and promoting the use of regenerative materials. Further research on crop-specific substrates is needed to optimize these findings and expand their application to other crops and farming systems.

AgriculturePlant ScienceAnimal Science

References

Main Study

1) Aquaponic growth of basil (Ocimum basilicum) with African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) in standard substrate combined with a Humicacid Fiber-Substrate (HFS).

Published 31st July, 2024

https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-68361-3

Related Studies

2) The significance of biomass in a circular economy.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biortech.2020.122755

3) The impact of different Zinc (Zn) levels on growth and nutrient uptake of Basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) grown under salinity stress.

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0246493


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