Variation in Pathogenic Organisms as Affected by Using Hydroponic Nutrient Wastewater in Horticultural Facilities

Abstract

Among the horticulture facilities in Korea, the hydroponic cultivation method has been increasingly used. This study aimed to identify fungi and bacterial species in hydroponic cultivation and highlight the need for sterilization to recycle the discharged drainage. Samples were collected from a number of paprika, tomato, and strawberry hydroponic greenhouses. Vinyl and glass greenhouses were studied, and the drainage discharge was of two types: direct discharge and collection after discharge. In total, 24 fungal and six bacterial species were detected from 399 and 151 densities, respectively. The primary fungal and bacterial species identified were from the genera Fusarium, Pythium, and Phytophthora as well as Agrobacterium and Pseudomonas. Statistical analysis revealed that the species number and density of fungi and bacteria were higher in strawberry than in tomato or paprika. These values were higher for vinyl greenhouses than for glass greenhouses. This study on the reuse of drainage from hydroponic greenhouses may contribute to the recycling of resources and reduction in water pollutant emission; this will thus help us to implement sustainable horticulture practices.