A continuous nutrient flow technique for comparative studies in plant nutrition

Abstract

A continuous nutrient flow technique for comparative studies of plant nutrient uptake is described. In this technique the nutrient solution enters a common mixing bowl before passing to the separate containers that are used for each batch or species of plants. The solution is continuously transferred through the individual containers by compressed air or pump at rates approximating 24 l./hr/container, and the nutrient concentration can be maintained within 5-10% of requirement by the introduction of fresh solution via the mixing bowl. The apparatus ensures uniformity of nutrient concentration and is equally adaptable to low and high concentrations.