Effects of Substrate Volumetric Water Content, Nutrient Solution Concentration, and Irrigation Method on Growth and Photosynthesis of Alocasia
Journal
HortScience
Journal Volume
60
Journal Issue
8
Start Page
1372
End Page
1378
ISSN
0018-5345
2327-9834
Date Issued
2025-08
Author(s)
Hsieh, Chih-Wei
Abstract
Alocasias, known for their diverse foliage shapes and variegations, are popular as landscape ornamentals in subtropical and tropical regions and for indoor decoration. However, information on their water management and fertilization is limited. Alocasia ‘Bambino’ was subjected to four substrate volumetric water content (VWC) treatments: 20% VWC (dry), 25%/55% VWC (dry/wet cycle), 40% VWC (even moisture), and 70% VWC (constant sub-irrigation). Results showed the following ranking for growth parameters, including number of new-grown leaves, leaf area, plant dry weight, and net photosynthetic rate: 70% VWC > 40% VWC > 25%/55% VWC > 20% VWC. Plants at 20% VWC exhibited the lowest maximum quantum efficiency of photosystem II (Fv/Fm) and the highest intercellular CO2 concentration. In addition, plants were supplied with 0% to 150% Johnson’s solution once per week, using top-or sub-irrigation. Growth was optimal with 25% to 50% Johnson’s solution (0.58–1.10 dS·m21); beyond this, growth plateaued or declined. Root dry weight was consistently higher under sub-irrigation across all nutrient concentrations. Substrate electrical conductivity (EC) increased with nutrient concentration, but total plant dry weight peaked at 0.4 dS·m21 with a 1 water:2 substrate extraction. Above this EC, top-irrigation caused decreased growth, whereas sub-irrigated plants maintained stable performance.
Subjects
foliage plants
Johnson’s solution
sub-irrigation
substrate electrical conductivity
Publisher
American Society for Horticultural Science
Type
journal article