Aim :
To successfully grow marigold in a DWC hydroponic system and evaluate its growth and flowering performance.
Objectives :
1. To standardize the nutrient solution (EC and pH) requirements for optimal vegetative and flowering growth of marigold under DWC system.
2. To evaluate the growth parameters (plant height, leaf number, root length, biomass) of marigold grown in DWC.
3. To assess the effect of hydroponic nutrient management on flowering attributes (days to bud initiation, number of flowers, flower diameter).
4. To study the root morphology and overall plant health in a soil-less cultivation system.
8 Feb – 10 Feb 2026
A discussion was held with Dixit Sir, and it was decided to conduct a trial of marigold in the DWC system. Accordingly, we transplanted marigold seedlings of yellow and orange colors into the DWC tank.
EC – 1.2 m S/cm
pH – 5.8
14 Feb 2026 ( Week 1 )
After 4 days, the plant growth looked good and the roots were also well developed. However, pest infestation started appearing on the marigold plants. The pests from the capsicum plants in the polyhouse had spread to the marigold plants. It was necessary to control them, so I applied a spray of neem oil.
EC -1.2 m S/cm
pH – 5.9
21 Feb 2026 (Week 2)
I applied neem oil spray at an interval of 3 days, and by week 2, the pest attack had reduced significantly. The marigold plants were growing well, showing good vegetative and root growth. Also, the system is provided with bubbling at 1-hour intervals during the daytime.
EC- 1.2m S/cm
pH -5.9
28 Feb 2026 (Week 3 )
On 28th, a discussion was held with Dixit Sir regarding the growth of marigold in the DWC tank. The marigold growth was very good, with only about 2% pest infection observed, which will also be controlled. The root growth and vegetative branches were well developed. The marigold plants in the DWC system showed growth similar to those grown in soil. After discussing with Dixit Sir, it was decided to start the required dosing for the flowering stage in the next week.
EC -1.4 m S/cm
pH – 6
