Speaker
Description
Worldwide, the availability of arable land and other natural resources is declining and
is projected to decline further as climate change challenges persist amid a growing
population. Blueberries (Vaccinium corymbosum L.) are commercially cultivated
under soilless systems, using growing media, as they require an acidic substrate for
root and plant growth. This review investigates established theories, limitations, and
research gaps regarding the use of growing media as a substrate and its influence on
sustainable blueberry production. The study employed a semi-systematic approach
in conceptualising various sources available in the discipline. Databases that are
available on the Cape Peninsula University of Technology Library ProQuest portal,
such as Web of Science, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, and other sources, were
used to critically evaluate and identify relevant sources. Different growing media
materials greatly influence the physical, chemical, and biological properties of the
substrate that ensure aeration, water and nutrient supply. The choice of material
should mainly be based on its ability to withstand acidic conditions. For blueberries,
materials such as peat moss, which has been widely used, are common; however,
concerns about environmental impact have shifted the focus to alternatives to peat.
These alternative materials are used in a composition of two or more materials,
maximising benefits; however, this also affects the electrical conductivity (EC) and
the availability of minerals, such as N, P, K, Ca, Mg, Fe, B, Zn, etc. Renewable
agricultural products should be considered when choosing an ideal growing medium.
Continuous monitoring and adjustments are critical for blueberry species that are
sensitive to cultivation conditions, especially under soilless cultivation. Future
research should primarily focus on long-term evaluation of the effects of the different
growing media materials on agronomic performance while promoting sustainable
cultivation practices.
| Corresponding Author's Email | mfekan@cput.ac.za |
|---|---|
| Keywords | Growing media, Blueberry, Coir, Substrate, Sustainable cultivation |