Hydroponic production of vegetable Amaranth (Amaranthus cruentus) for improving nutritional security and economic viability in Kenya

Abstract

This study used a multidisciplinary approach to evaluate the potential for hydroponic production of vegetable amaranth (Amaranthus cruentus) in Kenya. Hydroponic systems have potential for increased efficiency in water and land use, but their potential has not been critically evaluated in many developing countries. To address this gap in knowledge, this study assessed the nutritional density and economic viability of hydroponic systems built from local materials. Specifically, vegetable amaranth was grown hydroponically and evaluated for increased nutritional density of key micronutrients. Manipulation of the nutrient solution used in hydroponic systems changed the bioaccumulation of zinc, iron and carotenoids, which are three of the most common micronutrients lacking in Kenyan diets. Economic viability was assessed with a benefit-cost analysis that compared three different hydroponic systems to soil-based production and purchasing vegetables from local markets. This analysis showed that none of the hydroponic systems were profitable under current conditions, but sensitivity analyses revealed certain scenarios where they could become so. Overall, hydroponic production has the potential to create nutrient-dense crops with high levels of zinc, iron, or carotenoids. However, hydroponic systems may be better suited to crops of higher value than amaranth, areas where soil-based production is not an option, or regions where vegetable markets are not available.

Diagnosis of leaf nutrient content for ‘common’ arrowroot plants fertilized with ovine manure

“…However, it differed from that of Pereira (2019), which observed average leaf P content of 3.8 g kg -1 for the variety Viçosa. The difference between P content on leaf tissues may be a result of different fertilizer properties, which directly influence nutrient accumulation in plants (Croft et al, 2017).…”

Closed-loop organic waste management systems for family farmers in Brazil

“…Looking at this aspect for the hydroponic unit, it can be concluded that the technical feasibility of the unit at scale has not been proven [11]. Small-scale and low-cost hydroponic units are gaining more attention as a way to alleviate poverty and improve farmers' resilience [106,107,108].…”

Quality Improvement of Netted Melon (Cucumis melo L. var. reticulatus) through Precise Nitrogen and Potassium Management in a Hydroponic System

“…Hydroponic fruit production has extensively expanded globally in recent decades, due to the ease of nutrient management and increased efficiency of water and fertiliser use. Additionally, manipulating the nutrient levels in hydroponic solutions were effective in controlling the plant growth, yield, and fruit quality [1][2][3][4][5]. In recent years, with the rapid development of precision agriculture, crop cultivation in the closed hydroponic systems has become the best choice for well-maintaining stable cultivation conditions through fertiliser management and nutrient monitoring.…”