Genotype-dependent growth and quality responses of melon (Cucumis melo L.) to potassium nitrate under dynamic root floating hydroponics

Allya Danir Abdallah; Alfu  Laila; Sulastri  Isminingsih; Andi A.  Fatmawaty

doi:10.31849/jip.v23i1.32349

Authors

Allya Danir Abdallah Department of Agroecotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, Sultan Ageng Tirtayasa University, Serang 42163, Indonesia
Alfu Laila Department of Agroecotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, Sultan Ageng Tirtayasa University, Serang 42163, Indonesia
Sulastri Isminingsih Department of Agroecotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, Sultan Ageng Tirtayasa University, Serang 42163, Indonesia
Andi A. Fatmawaty Department of Agroecotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, Sultan Ageng Tirtayasa University, Serang 42163, Indonesia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.31849/jip.v23i1.32349

Keywords:

nutrient optimization, varietal response, fruit quality traits, hydroponic nutrient management, yield components

Abstract

Limited understanding of genotype-dependent responses to nutrient enrichment remains a key constraint in optimizing melon production under dynamic root floating hydroponic systems. This study evaluated genotype-dependent growth and fruit quality responses of melon (Cucumis melo L.) to potassium nitrate (KNO₃) supplementation under a dynamic root floating technique (DRFT) hydroponic system. A two-factor split-plot design with three replications was used, consisting of four KNO₃ doses (0, 2, 4, and 6 g plant⁻¹) and three melon varieties. KNO₃ supplementation significantly affected plant growth, fruit weight, flesh thickness, and sugar content, with the optimal response generally observed at 4 g plant⁻¹. At this level, fruit weight and flesh thickness reached their highest values, while sugar content was maximized in specific varieties, indicating differential genotype performance. Among the tested varieties, Kinanti exhibited superior sugar content, whereas Kirani produced higher fruit weight and flesh thickness. Regression analysis further confirmed an optimal KNO₃ level of approximately 4.25 g plant⁻¹, although the strength of the response varied among parameters. These findings demonstrate that potassium nitrate plays a critical role in enhancing melon productivity under hydroponic conditions, with growth and quality responses strongly influenced by genotype-specific characteristics.

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