Effect of Electric Shock on the Media and Foliar Spray of CaCl2 to the Nutritional and Bioactive Content of Lettuce

Abstract

Chloride (Cl2 - ) plays an essential role in the photosynthesis process. Electric shock to the ground is intended to maximize the local potential of the soil through electrical stimulation so that all local potentials such as organic matter, microorganisms, and nutrients absorbed in soil colloids can be optimized. This study aimed to find out the effect of electric shock on the media and Cl2 - treatment on the nutritional and bioactive content of lettuce. The research was conducted at the greenhouse, consisting of 2 factors analyzed using Factorial Random Block Design. The first factor was the electric shock interval consisting of four levels (0, 3, 5, and 7 days interval application). The second factor was the concentration level of CaCl2 consisting of three levels (0%, 1%, and 2%). All the treatment combinations were replicated three times, and each treatment consisted of 3 samples. The observed variables included leaf water content, vitamin C content, crude fiber (%) and ash content (%), total soluble solids (ºbrix). The results showed that total soluble solids are not affected by electric shock and spraying of CaCl2. Electrical shock of 5 days interval and the application of 1% of CaCl2 (I2C1) can increase the vitamin C content. Electric shock of 5 days interval and the application of 2% CaCl2 fertilizer (I2C2) can increase the leaf water content. Electric shock of 7 days interval with the combination of 2% CaCl2 (I3C2) was able to increase the ash content and crude fiber of lettuce.