ASSESSMENT OF SUBSTRATE SOLUTION EXTRACTION METHODS FOR DETERMINATION OF CHEMICAL ATTRIBUTES IN SOILLESS CULTURE OF BELL PEPPER AND MELON

ABSTRACT The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficiency porous ceramic cup extractors, associated with ion meters, for determination nutrients availability bell pepper and melon crops in substrate. Substrate solution acquired using aqueous extract 1:1.5 (v/v) also extractor. Electrical conductivity (EC), pH macronutrient contents were determined substrate through analytical method. concentrations NO- K+ solutions obtained N K diagnostic leaf nutritional evaluation determined. NO3- extractors have strong correlation (r=0.96 0.92, respectively) ones standard method, as well a moderate (r=0.65) one (r=0.71) K, respectively, leaf; weak (r=0.36 0.26, leaf. use obtaining N-NO- by means specific meters are fast method evaluating soilless cultures.