NATIONAL UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

NAME: NOKUTENDA

SURNAME: CHINANGA

STUDENT NUMBER: N02422312Y

PROGRAME: APPLIED BIOLOGY AND

BIOCHEMISTRY

COURSE: SBB1105

LECTURER: MR. K MUSHONGA

TITLE: EXPERIMENTAL GROWTH OF LETTUCE

ABSTRACT

The aim of the practical was to observe the growth parameters of lettuce grown in sterilized and unsterilized
soil based on nutrient availability and presense of microbes. Students collected 100kg of soil from the field
using hoes and shovels. They carried it to the laboratory where half of it was sterilized and collected it after
a few days. Students obtained two 500ml bottles of pure water and cut the laterally and stored the two soil
samples there. Lettuce seeds were collected and sown in the watered soil. Students observed the
germination and growth of the lettuce.The results show that lettuce grown in unsterilized soil had a higher
percentage germination and produced healthier plants whereas the lettuce grown in sterilized soil proved
to produce the opposite results. I would recommend the use of fertilisers in order to closely monitor one
parameter that is the effect of microbes on lettuce growth. I recommend the use of larger containers to grow
the lettuce that is 5 litre-purified water bottles to avoid overcrowding of crops

INTRODUCTION

Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) is one of the most popular leafy vegetables globally, cherished for its crisp texture
and mild flavor. As a staple ingredient in salads, sandwiches, and many culinary dishes, the demand for
fresh lettuce continues to rise. This report delves into various aspects of lettuce cultivation, including
optimal growing conditions, pest and disease management, nutrient deficiencies, harvesting practices,
stress responses, metabolic processes, and its economic and environmental significance. It also discusses
the effects of nutrient excess and highlights a study comparing the growth of lettuce in sterilized versus
unsterilized soil (UC Davis, 2016).

Lettuce thrives in cooler temperatures, ideally between 60°F and 70°F (15°C to 21°C). Extreme heat can
cause bolting, while frost can damage seedlings. The plant prefers well-drained, loamy soil with a pH
between 6.0 and 6.8. Incorporating organic matter, such as compost, improves soil fertility and structure,
and consistent moisture is crucial due to lettuce's shallow root system. Drip irrigation is often recommended
to maintain moisture levels while minimizing disease risks (Starke A, 2014).

The cultivation process begins with selecting a location that receives full sun and has good air circulation.
Soil should be well-drained and enriched with organic matter, and pH levels should be tested and amended
as necessary. Fertilizers can adjust soil pH to optimal levels, with sulfur used to lower pH and ground
limestone to raise it. After preparing the soil, seeds can be sown directly or started indoors and transplanted
later. Regular watering and monitoring for pests and diseases are essential for healthy growth (ZOPPA
Trust).

Lettuce is vulnerable to various pests, including aphids, slugs, leafminers, and cutworms, all of which can
significantly impact growth and quality. Effective pest management strategies, such as integrated pest
management (IPM), are crucial for maintaining healthy crops. Additionally, lettuce faces several diseases,
including downy mildew, powdery mildew, and bacterial leaf spot, which require timely intervention
(Agronomy, 2020).

Weed control is also vital; pre-emergent and post-emergent herbicides can help manage weed competition.
Nutrient management is critical, as deficiencies in nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and
magnesium can adversely affect growth and yield. Conversely, nutrient excesses can lead to problems such
as poor root development and compromised nutrient uptake (Agronomy, 2020).

Harvesting practices should be executed carefully to maintain quality. Loose-leaf varieties can be harvested
30 to 45 days after planting, while head varieties require 60 to 75 days. Post-harvest handling, including
rapid cooling and proper storage, is essential to preserve freshness (ZOPPA Trust).

The metabolic processes of lettuce, such as transpiration, photosynthesis, and respiration, are vital for its
growth. Transpiration regulates water balance and nutrient transport, while photosynthesis converts light
energy into chemical energy, producing glucose and oxygen. Respiration provides the energy necessary
for growth and maintenance (UC Davis, 2016).

Lettuce is sensitive to environmental stresses like heat, drought, and salinity. High temperatures can lead
to bolting, while drought can cause wilting. Managing these stresses through shade cloth, efficient
irrigation, and the use of salt-tolerant varieties is essential for successful cultivation. Biochemically, lettuce
responds to stress by producing protective proteins and antioxidants (Agronomy, 2020).

The environmental impact of lettuce farming is significant, particularly regarding water usage and pesticide
application. Sustainable practices, including organic farming and integrated pest management, can help
minimize these effects. Innovative approaches such as greenhouse technology and hydroponics can
enhance efficiency and reduce the carbon footprint (Frontiers in Sustainable Cities, 2021).

A study conducted by researchers at the University of California, Davis, investigated the effects of soil
sterilization on lettuce growth. The study compared lettuce grown in sterilized soil to that in unsterilized
soil under controlled conditions. Results showed that lettuce in sterilized soil exhibited faster growth
rates—averaging a 20% increase in height—and a 30% higher yield, along with a lower incidence of pests
and diseases (Plant Physiology Reports, 2021).

In conclusion, utilizing sterilized soil for lettuce cultivation can lead to enhanced growth and yield while
reducing pest and disease issues. These findings emphasize the potential benefits of soil sterilization in
commercial farming practices, suggesting that such methods could improve both the quality and quantity
of lettuce harvested. By adopting sustainable practices and effective management strategies, growers can
optimize lettuce production while minimizing environmental impacts (UC Davis, 2016).

METHOD

The materials used in this practical includes hoes, shovels, lettuce seeds, mineral water, 500ml containers,
gloves, sterilized and unsterilized soil. Students collected an estimated amount of 100kg of soil from the
campus field using hoes and shovels and transported it to the laboratory in buckets and dishes. The soil
was left in the laboratory for a few days as the other half of the soil had to be sterilized. The empty mineral
water bottles were cut laterally near the screwed top of the bottle. Students collected sterilized and
unsterilized soil in two different containers each. Pre-planning watering was done in both containers with
mineral water before the sowing of seeds to improve the soil structure as it was dry before planting. The
lettuce seeds were handled with gloves durin distribution due to the poisonous nature of the protective
coating. Each SBB and SBB student was given 10 seeds. The seeds were sown on the 9th of November. A
thin layer of soil was removed and the seeds were sown and covered. Deep sowing was avoided due to the
minute nature of the seeds. The lettuce was watered daily and germination was observed in both containers.
Students observed the leaf lenghth, width and stem height in both containers daily and plotted the mean
values on graphs every week. The sprouted lettuce plants were measured after four weeks in terms of
germination percentage, fresh biomass, cumulative water use, water use efficiency and transpiration
accumulation

RESULTS

SECTION A: INDIVIDUAL RESULTS

Table 1.1 Number and percentage germination of seedlings in container Q (sterilized soil) and R
(unsterilized soil).
DATE GERMINATED GERMINATION
SEEDLINGS PERCENTAGE
Q R Q R
12 Nov 2024 3 1 60% 20%
14 Nov 2024 3 1 60% 20%
16 Nov 2024 3 2 60% 20%

Table 1.2 Growth parameters of lettuce grown in sterilized field soil.

WEEK 1 WEEK 2 WEEK 3 WEEK 4
LEAF COUNT 2 4 6 6
LEAF LENGTH(mm) 10.6 15.6 17 22
LEAF WIDTH (mm) 10 12 15 20.5
STEM HEIGHT (mm) 15.3 18 19.4 23.6

Table 1.3 Growth parameters of lettuce grown in unsterilized field soil.

WEEK 1 WEEK 2 WEEK 3 WEEK 4
LEAF COUNT 2 5 7 8
LEAF LENGTH(mm) 20 25 25.6 26
LEAF WIDTH (mm) 16 20 20.7 26
STEM HEIGHT (mm) 23 26 27.8 32

Table 1.4 Amount of water and pecolation time in container Q (sterilized soil) and R (unsterilized soil).
WEEK 1 – WEEK 4
Q R
AMOUNT OF WATER 2500 2500
USED(ml)
PECOLATION 4 4
TIME(minutes)
 UNSTERILISED SOIL GROWTH PARAMETERS
35

30

25

20

15

10

0
LEAF COUNT LEAF LENGTH(mm) LEAF WIDTH (mm) STEM HEIGHT(mm)

WEEK 1 WEEK 2 WEEK 3 WEEK 4

Fig 1.1 Growth parameters for lettuce grown in unsterilized soil

SRERILISED SOIL GROWTH PARAMETERS

25

20

15

10

0
LEAF COUNT LEAF LENGTH(mm) LEAF WIDTH(mm) STEM HEIGHT(mm)

WEEK 1 WEEK 2 WEEK 3 WEEK 4

Fig 1.2 Growth parameters for lettuce grown in sterilized soil

SECTION B: AVERAGE CLASS RESULTS

Lettuce growth experiment results reporting
Table 1 Plant Physiology and parameter measurements of all lettuce plants growing in 500ml bottles for 4
weeks

Treatment Number of Total Aboveground Cumulative Water Transpiration

plants aboveground Fresh biomass Water use use Assimilation
(count) Fresh (mg per plant) (ml) efficiency ratio
biomass(g) (mg/ml)
Unsterilized field soil 166 17.3 104 2500 6.92 14.45
Sterilized field soil 117 11.7 100 2500 4.68 21.37
*Water use efficiency= total aboveground fresh biomass measured(mg) / cumulative water use (ml)
*Transpiration assimilation ratio = cumulative water use (litres) / total aboveground biomass measured (kg)

DISCUSSION

The germination data revealed a marked difference between the two soil types. Lettuce seeds in sterilized
soil achieved a germination rate of 60%, while those in unsterilized soil only reached 20%. This result
supports the findings of Garrison et al. (2019), which indicated that sterilized soils improve germination
rates by removing soil-borne pathogens and pests. The consistent germination percentages observed in this
experiment highlight the effectiveness of sterilization in promoting seedling emergence, as documented in
existing literature.

Further analysis of growth parameters showed significant differences between the two soil treatments over
a four-week period. Specifically, unsterilized soil supported a higher leaf count of 8 leaves by Week 4
compared to 6 in sterilized soil. This aligns with the research of Lichtenstein et al. (2021), which found
that unsterilized soils promote beneficial microbial communities that increase nutrient availability,
resulting in enhanced foliar development. Such interactions can stimulate plant growth, leading to healthier
and more abundant foliage.

Measurements of leaf dimensions further underscored the benefits of unsterilized soil. By Week 4, the
average leaf length and width in unsterilized soil reached 26 mm and 26 mm, respectively, as opposed to
22 mm and 20.5 mm in sterilized soil. This finding corroborates (Johnson and Smith, 2020), who suggested
that unsterilized soils, rich in organic matter and microbial life, offer a more favorable nutrient profile that
encourages larger leaf sizes. The diversity of soil microorganisms can greatly enhance nutrient uptake,
directly benefiting leaf development.

Stem height also revealed notable differences, with unsterilized soil producing an average height of 32 mm
by Week 4, compared to 23.6 mm in sterilized soil. This observation is consistent with (Wang et al., 2018),
who reported that biological activity in unsterilized soils stimulates root growth, resulting in taller plants.
Their research indicated that symbiotic relationships between plants and soil microbes can significantly
improve plant stature.

Water usage data indicated that both soil types received an equal amount of water (625 ml) weekly,
suggesting that water availability did not directly affect the observed growth differences. The identical
percolation times of 4 minutes further imply similar drainage characteristics, facilitating a clearer
comparison of the biological impacts of soil treatment.

In the average class results, unsterilized soil yielded a total aboveground fresh biomass of 17.3 g from 166
plants, whereas sterilized soil produced 11.7 g from 117 plants. This finding aligns with (Patel et al., 2022),
who observed that unsterilized soils often support higher biomass due to improved nutrient availability and
microbial activity. Their study demonstrated that diverse microbial populations in unsterilized soils
enhance nutrient cycling, leading to greater biomass accumulation.

Unsterilized soil, displayed high water use efficiency of 6.92 mg/ml and sterilized soil displayed low water
efficiency of 4.68mg/ml. (Martinez and Jones, 2021) noted that water use efficiency in lettuce cultivation
can be affected by soil health and microbial activity, highlighting the necessity for optimized irrigation
strategies that improve water use without hindering growth.

The transpiration assimilation ratio was significantly higher in sterilized soil (21.37) than in unsterilized
soil (14.45), indicating that plants in sterilized conditions were more effective at converting water uptake
into biomass. This finding is consistent with research by (Adams and Brown, 2017), which suggested that
sterilized soils enhance water uptake efficiency under controlled conditions. Reduced competition from
pathogens can contribute to improved plant health and resource utilization.

Effective management practices in cultivating lettuce in unsterilized soil play a crucial role in promoting
plant growth. These practices include careful attention to watering, fertilization, and pest control, which
create an optimal environment for the plants. The presence of organic matter in unsterilized soil supports
nutrient availability, leading to healthier plants and higher biomass production. Additionally, unsterilized
soil contains diverse beneficial microbes that enhance nutrient uptake and overall plant health, facilitating
nutrient cycling and helping plants withstand environmental stressors (Johnson & Smith, 2020).

In contrast, using sterilized soil focuses on maintaining a controlled environment to minimize pathogens
and pests. This approach initially leads to higher germination rates and more uniform growth; however, the
absence of microbial diversity limits the plants' ability to access nutrients effectively over time. The
sterilization process removes beneficial microbes essential for long-term growth, resulting in restricted
nutrient cycling and lower overall biomass production compared to unsterilized soil (Garrison, Smith, &
Lee, 2019).

Light availability also influences growth. In unsterilized soil, robust leaf development maximizes
photosynthesis, resulting in larger leaves and increased biomass. In sterilized soil, despite adequate light,
reduced leaf size and overall health hinder effective photosynthesis, further limiting growth (Adams &
Brown, 2017; Wang, Chen, & Zhao, 2018).

CONCLUSION

The results of this study show the complex interactions between soil treatment methods and lettuce growth.
While sterilized soil promotes higher germination rates and may enhance water use efficiency, unsterilized
soil appears to facilitate greater overall biomass and leaf development.
REFERENCES

Adams, R., & Brown, T. (2017). The relationship between transpiration and biomass in sterilized soils.
Journal of Plant Physiology, 204, 45-52.

Agronomy. (2020). Strategies for Improved Yield and Water Use Efficiency of Lettuce. American
Society of Agronomy, USA.

Frontiers in Sustainable Cities. (2021). Evaluation of Lettuce Growth, Yield, and Economic Viability
Grown Vertically on Unutilized Building Wall in Dhaka City. Frontiers Media, Switzerland.

Johnson, K., & Smith, L. (2020). Nutrient dynamics in unsterilized soils: Implications for leaf size and
plant health. Soil Ecology Letters, 12(3), 201-210.

Lichtenstein, G., Patel, R., & Thompson, M. (2021). The role of microbial communities in plant growth:
A focus on leaf development. Plant Biology Journal, 15(2), 45-58.

Martinez, J., & Jones, D. (2021). Water use efficiency in lettuce cultivation: The role of soil health.
Irrigation Science, 39(2), 123-130.

Patel, R., Garrison, A. W., & Lee, T. (2022). Biomass production in lettuce: The impact of soil health and
microbial activity. Horticultural Science, 14(1), 89-97.

Plant Physiology Reports. (2021). Growth and Physiology of Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) Cultivars under
Different Growing Systems. MDPI, Switzerland.

Starke Ayres. (2014). Lettuce Production Guideline 2014. Starke Ayres, South Africa.

UC Davis. (2016). Leaf Lettuce PDF. University of California, Davis, USA.Wang, Y., Chen, X., & Zhao,
Q. (2018). Microbial interactions and their effects on plant height in agricultural systems. Agricultural
Microbiology, 9(1), 67-75.

ZOPPA Trust. (Year not specified). Organic Lettuce Grower Manual. Zimbabwe Organic Producers and
Promoters Association (ZOPPA), Harare, Zimbabwe.
APPENDIX

Fig 2.1 I week seedling unsterilized

Fig2.2 Emerging Lettuce seedlings at 1 week in sterilized soil

Fig2.3 2 week old lettuce in sterilized soil

Fig 2.4 3 week old lettuce in sterilized soil

Fig 2.5 4 week old lettuce in sterilized soil