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The Comparison of Cultivation of Thyme (Thymus vulgaris L.) in Hydroponic & Soil Culture in Kermanshah, Iran: Trying to Save Water Resources

Abdolhamid Papzan 1 &  Ali Beheshti 2

1 Islamic Azad University, Kermanshah Branch and College of Agriculture University, Razi, Iran
e-mail: H_papzan@yahoo.com

2 College of Agriculture, Razi University, Iran.

Abstract
(in absentia)


Limitation of water resources and control of nutrients needs as well as land topography are among the reasons for progressing hydroponic cultures. However the component of "water saving" will be the most relevant for countries facing arid and semi arid conditions. Consequently, during 2004-2005 a study was conducted in the research field of the Agricultural College at Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran. The goal of this study was to compare Thyme yield in two different agricultural culture systems: hydroponic and soil culture.
As part of the project, samples were collected during a period of two years. The results indicate that the dried yield of hydroponic system in the first year was 2440 kg/hec in comparing with 3050 kg/hec for soil culture. The rates for the second year were 4600 kg/hec and 2400kg/hec for hydroponic and soil culture respectively. Considering that the hydroponic system only needed half of the water requirements of the soil culture, the yield surplus in the hydroponic system is noteworthy. Furthermore, in this system, it is easy to control pests and diseases. On the other hand, topography limitations in conventional soil culture are not a problem, because the plants could receive nutrient solution by drop watering (under pressure system), due to the fact that for this system it is not necessary to provide an adequate land slope. This article presents the results of above mentioned two- years study in regards toThyme, which is as an important medical plant.

Keywords: Hydroponics, Soil culture, Water Management, Thyme, Thymus vulgaris, Kermanshah, Iran