The addition of chlorine constitutes an economical disinfection method for closed, soil-less systems. Three quantities of sodium hypochlorite (0.55, 5.5 and 11 ppm) were applied to closed, soil-less greenhouse- grown lettuce (Lactuca sativa), to study the effect on its production (fresh weight and dry matter) and some commercial and nutritional quality factors (phytotoxicity, Vitamin C, nitrates). Sodium hypochlorite was weekly added within the nutrient solution, and the chemical properties (pH, EC and chlorides) of the recycled solution were measured. Damage to leaves was evaluated 15 days before harvest. Chlorination produced different effects regarding both production and quality. All treatments presented plants with excellent commercial weight,... |