Abstract :
Hydroponics crop production has significantly increased in recent years worldwide, which allows an efficient use of water and fertilizers, as well as better control of climate and pest factors. Furthermore, hydroponics production under protected structure can increase crop quality and productivity, which results in higher competitiveness and economic incomes. The study was conducted to evaluate the postharvest quality of honeydew melon (Cucumis melo L. var. inoduros) under aggregate hydroponic system using inorganic and organic nutrient solutions. Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) was used in this study with two test factors: Factor A – with and without foliar application of fermented malunggay and Factor B- Organic and inorganic nutrient solutions and combinations, replicated three times. Results revealed that honeydew fruit were harvested at the average days of 56 with 80-95% plants survival. Postharvest quality and properties, the free radical scavenging activity (FRSA), Chlorophyll a and b, carotenoids, vitamin C and oxidation-reduction potential were significantly affected by the different treatments. FRSA was higher in honeydew melons applied with the combination of trichantera and commercial nutrient solution. Fermented golden snail treatment obtained the highest value of chlorophyll a and b and fermented trichantera gave the highest total carotenoids. Commercial nutrient solution and fermented trichantera obtained the highest vitamin C and Oxidation-reduction Potential, respectively.