Basil Lab Report

What was the Effect of pH on the Growth of Hydroponically-Grown Basil?

Purpose The purpose of this experiment was to examine the effect of nutrient solutions with different pH levels on basil grown in a hydroponic system.

Background Research When seeds are planted, they already contain all of their nutrients that they need, in order to develop, in embryos called cotyledons. They begin to grow roots underground to anchor themselves. Once the roots have provided a satisfactory base, a small plant shoots up from the ground, completing the process of germination. At this stage, the plant no longer can rely on its stored nutrients— as they are now depleted. In order to continue growing, it must go through photosynthesis, the process of turning

Plants need a chlorophyll, light, clean air, carbon dioxide, water, nutrients, space, and time. Chlorophyll is a green pigment found inside the leaves; it allows for the absorption of light. Light provides warmth to a plant and can be used as a form of energy to facilitate the chemical reaction in photosynthesis. With a healthy environment made of clean air, it is easier for plants to take in light and the proper amount of carbon dioxide, a gas expelled from other organisms during cellular respiration. Water is crucial to survival. It is collected through the roots and moved throughout the plant’s structure. The water spreads moisture, as well as nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Too little or too much water or nutrients can be harmful to a plant. Adequate space must also be provided in order for a plant to reach its maximum growth

A grow light was positioned in the air so that its light covered each system

Each reservoir was filled with 12 liters of water

2.5 mL of MaxiGro fertilizer were added to each water tank

13.2 mL of pH Down were added to one reservoir, 13.2 mL of pH Up to another, and the last one was left untouched

The basil plants were divided into 3 groups of 6 and put into slots in the hydroponic setups The grow light was turned on for [] hours and then shut off for [] hours each day

At the end of the week, plants’ heights were measured in cm and recorded

Steps 6 through 8 were repeated each week, after the reservoir tanks were dumped out and