Soilless cultivation is a modern agricultural technique that involves growing plants in a nutrient-rich solution instead of traditional soil. This method offers numerous benefits, such as higher yields, faster growth, water conservation, reduced disease occurrence, and the ability to produce clean, high-quality vegetables. According to research, the cost of producing 1 kilogram of vegetables using a nutrient solution is just a few cents. Urban residents can even grow fresh, pesticide-free vegetables on their rooftops using this method, which is both simple and effective. Below are some innovative techniques for soilless cultivation of different vegetables, offering new opportunities for farmers and gardeners.
(1) The new technique for growing leeks without soil involves using deep pots or wooden troughs, around 18–20 cm in depth. A layer of sand about 1–2 cm thick is placed at the bottom to prevent root rot. Leek roots that have been grown in open fields for over two years are selected, with old roots and leaves trimmed to leave only the shortened stalks. These are then inserted into the pots. Plants are spaced approximately 33 cm apart. Once new roots appear, the nutrient solution is applied. In spring, summer, and autumn, it's watered once every 1–2 days, while in winter, it's done every 3–5 days. Watering should be done in the afternoon, avoiding rainy days. If yellowing occurs, more water is needed; if black leaves appear, less is required. The nutrient formula includes 15 grams of urea, 2.25 grams of potassium dihydrogen phosphate, and 15 liters of water, sufficient for 1.5 square meters.
(2) For cucumbers, the soilless cultivation technique helps speed up seedling development and reduces the growth cycle. After transplanting, one main vine and 1–2 side vines are retained, while others are removed. The top is pruned after 5–6 leaves. Cucumbers grown this way are less prone to diseases and can be cultivated continuously. During peak production periods, new seedlings can be planted, and when the plant starts to decline, they are replaced. Maintaining healthy, productive cucumber seedlings in sand basins ensures consistent yield and profitability.
(3) Soilless cultivation of watermelons can shorten the maturity period by 15–20 days, increase yield, and improve fruit quality. A 30 cm diameter and 45 cm tall pot or plastic bag is used. The bottom is filled with 15 cm of pebbles, and the upper part is filled with 80–90% clean river sand. Watermelon seeds are sown in river sand, with 1–2 seeds per pot, leaving only the strongest seedling. Alternatively, seedlings can be raised in a nutrient bag before being transplanted into the sand. Nutrient solution is applied starting from transplanting, with 200–500 grams per plant. The amount increases as the plant grows, and additional feeding can be done during midday when temperatures are high. Each plant should retain one main vine or one side vine with 1–2 fruits. A topping of 7–8 leaves is kept before the fruit. Other management practices are similar to conventional methods. The nutrient formula includes 15 g urea, 5–10 g calcium nitrate, 3.5–4 g potassium dihydrogen phosphate, 1.8 g potassium nitrate, 0.35–0.4 g ferric chloride, 5.6 g borax, and 1.5 g each of manganese sulfate, copper sulfate, and zinc sulfate. The pH of the solution should be maintained between 5.5 and 6.
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