Hydroponics and Sunflower Growth

Growing Sunflowers - Hydroponics vs' Soil
Experimenter: Sophia Coraci 

 

Problem:  Does Helianthus annuus (common sunflower)exhibit faster growth in traditional potting soil or in a dutch bucket hydroponic system?

 Hypothesis: Helianthus annuus will grow taller in a dutch bucket hydroponic system because of the constant supply of fertilizer applied directly to the root system.   

Experimental Design: Helianthus annuus seeds were germinated in traditional potting soil.  After the seeds germinated; 10 seedlings were planted in 4 inch plastic pots using traditional potting soil and 10 seedlings were planted in 4 inch plastic pots using large grain perlite in a dutch bucket hydroponic system.  Stem height measurements were taken over the course one month.  Please enjoy the following selection of pictures.