Affiliation(s): 1International Joint Laboratory for Agricultural Plant Metrology and Equipment Innovation, College of Life Sciences, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou 310018, China;
moreAffiliation(s): 1International Joint Laboratory for Agricultural Plant Metrology and Equipment Innovation, College of Life Sciences, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou 310018, China; 2Xianju County Specialty Technology Promotion Center, Xianju 317300, China; 3Institute of Horticulture, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou 310021, China;
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Abstract: Orchids are highly valued ornamental plants whose growth conditions directly impact the economic returns of the horticultural industry. The substrate, acting both as a physical support and a nutrient reservoir, is critical for orchid development. Therefore, the careful selection of an appropriate growth substrate is of paramount importance. However, existing research on the relationship between orchids growth and substrate properties relies mainly on manual measurements of physiological indicators, with limited application of high-throughput phenotyping platforms. In this study, we evaluated three distinct substrate types including peat soil mixed with perlite, pine bark, and river sand, applied to two orchid species, Cymbidium goeringii and Cymbidium faberi. Using the high-throughput Plantarray lysimetric system, we continuously recorded environmental parameters (photosynthetically active radiation, humidity, and temperature) as well as key growth metrics (biomass accumulation, canopy conductance, and transpiration rate). This platform allowed for precise and rapid quantification of orchid growth indicators. The results show that the type of substrate significantly affects orchid growth. Under controlled conditions, mixed substrates that provide balanced nutrition and excellent drainage enhanced orchid growth compared to other substrates. Additionally, when comparing the data obtained from the high-throughput phenotyping platform with traditional manual measurements, the automated system showed higher reliability and accuracy. This study not only provides practical guidance for selecting cultivation substrates for orchids but also establishes a robust scientific framework for integrating advanced phenotyping technologies into orchid cultivation practices.
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