The use of biostimulants as a key to sustainable hydroponic lettuce farming under saline water stress

The utilization of high-quality water in agriculture is increasingly constrained by climate change, affecting availability, quality, and distribution due to altered precipitation patterns, increased evaporation, extreme weather events, and rising salinity levels. Salinity significantly challenges salt-sensitive vegetables like lettuce, particularly in a greenhouse. Hydroponics water quality ensures nutrient solution stability, enhances nutrient uptake, prevents contamination, regulates pH and electrical conductivity, and maintains system components. This study aimed to mitigate salt-induced damage in lettuce grown via the floating culture method under 50 mM NaCl salinity by applying biostimulants.