We are growing sesame seedlings in a 1/2 strength Hoagland nutrient solution using a 9L box. But after 2-3 days the new leaves appeared yellow and burnt. The temperature is about 40 degrees with a RH around 20.
What could be the problem knowing that people often grow sesame using a 1/2 strength Hoagland nutrient solution?
Please check the pH and EC of the Hoagland solution , in addition to simulating the ideal growing conditions , these are the two major possibilities...
Dear Srivastava,
thank for your comment. Indeed we suspected the PH and checked it again. It was around 6.7. So I don''t think it is a PH issue.. We may also check the EC then..
Ok, please have a look at pH and EC variation periodically , is there a possibility to have an increased pH or EC at certain time of a day in relation to temperature or humidity , to have combined effects......
40 degrees C is far too hot for sesame seedlings. The optimal temperature is c. 25 :)
Establish that your pH readings are correct and meticulously calibrate everything in the system. If this looks ok the look at salt buildup in your nutrient mix. Some species of sesame are quite tolerant and some really are not. This is an interesting paper: https://link.springer.com/content/pdf/10.1007%2Fs11099-014-0015-z.pdf
For most varieties of sesame, the Optimum Temperature is above 25 degree C and below 40 degree C. So, please reduce the temperature and see if they can survive better.
Sesame is a crop of arid ecosystem and needs minimal water only at initial stage of germination and establishment. It is a drought hardy crop.
Dear Dossa
I think it is a matter of excess water since in general the sesame is susceptible to waterlogging. I have sown several seed sources with these pH values and with temperatures over 40 degrees without problem. I had enough trouble this year to stabilize the plants in small containers many died. I think it is related to excess water.
Dear All,
finally we have changed the Hoagland solution and the seedlings grew well. Before, We used a commercial Hoagland but it seems not very good. So we decided to prepare ourselves the Hoagland and the experiment was successful. By the way, 40 degree is not a real problem for sesame growth since it is a very resilient crop..
Thanks for your comments!
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