Beneficial Microorganisms for Hydroponic Leafy Greens in Hot Summers

Hydroponic Deep Water Culture system in Plovdiv, Bulgaria, demonstrates effective biological control of Pythium and other pathogens using the FORTES product and its stimulator over three hot, dry summers. Initial losses of ~50% in year one were reduced to ~15% in years two and three through weekly high-dose applications of beneficial microorganisms, which colonized the rhizosphere. Treated crops showed no differences in weight or organoleptic quality compared to controls, but exhibited enhanced resilience and sustained growth under extreme heat and pathogen pressure. The project, funded by the European Union and accessible via EU-FarmBook, highlights the viability of sustainable microbial management in hydroponic leafy greens and herb production.