Understanding growth, water use, N-nutrient uptake, and utilization is a prerequisite to effectively managing irrigation and fertilization programs in any cropping system including leafy vegetables in hydroponic systems. Earlier studies demonstrated the significant water savings (up to 90%) of lettuce cultivars grown in hydroponics versus open field cultivation under drip or center pivot systems. In a recent follow-up N-nutrition study we concluded that a pre- and post-transplant nutrient solution of up to 150 mg L−1 N was sufficient to ensure optimal growth and maximum yield of lettuce cultivars. Following the management strategies selected for Romaine and Bibb lettuce types, on-going studies are targeted to screen and select leafy Asian vegetables.
