Optimising nutrient retention in hydroponics

Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition

Nutrients and plant growth were at the root of a project by two students from St Bricin’s College in Belturbet. Nina Nawrocka and Ellie May McGovern presented ‘Optimising Nutrient Retention in Hydroponics’.

Ellie-May began: “Our aim was to see how super absorbent polymers effect nutrient retention and plant growth in a hydroponic system.

“The hydroponic system that we have chosen to do for our project is known as the Kratky Method, a passive system that doesn’t need any pumps, electricity or any moving parts. Instead, the plant roots just sit in a reservoir of nutrient solution and that provides everything it needs to grow.”

Nina explained that it was their second YSTE, adding that their experience this year was exciting and a bit nerve-wrecking, but positive overall. “We love it so far, it was good seeing the new President,” she commented.

The students gave a shoutout to Mr Dunne, their Science teacher: “He’s an amazing teacher and he does a lot for our school.”