327 Hydroponic Minituber Production
in HortScienceMinituber production was investigated using ex vitro `Norland' plantlets in a rockwool-based hydroponic system. Productivity was evaluated for 12- and 16-h photoperiod pre-treatment, planting density (two, four, and six plantlets/slab), vertical or horizontal orientation, pinching, and hilling. Total yield differences did not result from photoperiod pre-treatments, but 12-h pre-treatment increased the number of minitubers in the desirable 10- to 40-g size range. Increased planting density reduced yield per plant but caused small increases in yield per slab. Planting orientation, pinching, or hilling had no effect on overall fresh weight yield, number, or size distribution. Short photoperiod pre-treatment, and planting densities of four to six plantlets/slab, oriented vertically, are recommended.
