The University of Georgia compared different substrates in deep water culture systems, and in this research, Jiffy Preforma and Pellets have come out on top. According to the research, Jiffy Preforma performed the best on arugula with greater leaf area, shoot fresh weight, and shoot dry weight. On tests with lettuce, Preforma also had the most pronounced effects on leaf area, shoot fresh weight, and shoot dry weight with Pellets increasing height, width, leaf chlorophyll, and anthocyanin content (Ferrarezi et al. 2024).
According to the Jiffy team, this research confirms that "Jiffy Solutions are not just another substrate. It is a game-changer for anyone looking to get the most out of their hydroponic systems. With Preforma, for example, plants get the perfect balance of oxygen and water as well as a moderate bulk density, ensuring they grow healthier, faster, and stronger."
The study highlights some 'common challenges' with other types of substrates. Some materials can restrict root growth by not providing enough oxygen. In contrast, other plug systems might not have the air porosity and too high of bulk density needed for the best root development in water-based systems.
Choosing hydroponic substrates
The company states that "the substrate in a hydroponic system is much more than a mere placeholder for plants; it is the foundation of their growth, health, and productivity. The right substrate acts as a critical interface between the water-nutrient solution and plant roots, facilitating the optimal exchange of water, oxygen, and nutrients. This balance is crucial for robust root systems and, by extension, for the overall health of the plant."
According to Jiffy, suboptimal inorganic and organic substrates can create significant barriers to plant growth. For instance, materials with low porosity may impede water drainage and aeration, leading to root rot or hypoxia. Conversely, excessively porous substrates might drain too quickly, challenging water and nutrient retention and necessitating more frequent watering and feeding schedules that can be both labor-intensive and resource-heavy.
The study highlights that Performa's material composition impacts plant growth outcomes in hydroponic systems. Jiffy argues that materials like stone wool, while popular, have been shown to limit oxygen availability to the roots. They elaborate: "This underscores the importance of choosing substrates that support rather than inhibit root respiration and nutrient uptake. In addition, substrates that are difficult to dispose of pose major challenges to future sustainability, an important differentiator for hydroponic producers."
Jiffy Preforma
Jiffy claims that Jiffy Preforma offers a porosity that would allow for water retention while still promoting airflow to the roots, which encourages root development.
The blend of 75% peat and 25% coco coir in Preforma aims to provide a stable yet responsive environment for roots and to foster growth conditions by balancing moisture, aeration, and bulk density.
According to Jiffy, Jiffy Preforma is a bonded media that aims to prevent plugs from falling apart while allowing plants to be pulled apart 'more quickly and easily'. In addition, the company states that the substrate would handle lightly rooted plants without damage.
The Jiffy team says: "Using Preforma enables you to reduce your use of water and nutrients, achieving cost savings as your production efficiency and sustainability increase."
Jiffy's hydroponic solutions also include Jiffy Pellets, a solution for seed starting and cutting propagation that aspires to simplify the planting process and enhance plant growth from the beginning. Jiffy Pellets consist of a compressed peat, or a peat and coco coir blend, in a PLA netting.
"Upon watering, they expand to form a self-contained growing media that retains moisture yet allows for air circulation to the roots. these pellets can be used for both traditional planting and hydroponic systems. The biodegradable PLA netting keeps the media intact, ensuring the cleanliness of water recirculation systems, with a variety of sizes and material options available," elaborates the Jiffy team.
Sustainability
Jiffy shares that it continues to explore and integrate alternative fibers in its products.
At Jiffy they find that "success and sustainability lie in finding the right mix of materials, and customization is a key component of Jiffy's substrate solutions. Understanding the critical role of substrates in hydroponics can empower growers to make informed choices, leading to more successful and sustainable cultivation practices."
Further, the company is expanding with a new Jiffy Preforma factory in Oregon, scheduled to open in the summer 2024. This involves an expansion in Jiffy's operational capacity, which aims to enable the company to serve the West Coast and Latin America more efficiently. The factory is expected to include the same production processes and quality standards as that of Preforma.
For more information:
Jiffy Products International
Tel.: +31(0)78 2062200
sales@jiffygroup.com
www.jiffygroup.com