Student Research Reports

This study on the properties of bromeliad plants in relation to soil conditions and water retention was conducted to investigate the role of bromeliads in soil improvement and moisture conservation. The objectives of the study were: 1) to examine soil properties by measuring soil moisture, pH, NPK content, and soil structure in soils planted with bromeliad species Aechmea blanchetiana, Neoregelia cruenta, and Aechmea malva 2) to study the water retention capacity of the bromeliad species Aechmea blanchetiana, Neoregelia cruenta, and Aechmea malva 3) to investigate the relative humidity of the air in areas where Aechmea blanchetiana, Neoregelia cruenta, and Aechmea malva were cultivated. The experiment was conducted by preparing soil under identical conditions. Bromeliad plants were then cultivated in pots with controlled water supply and environmental conditions as similar as possible. Changes in physical characteristics and moisture levels were observed, along with the recording of water storage in different parts of the bromeliad plants.The results showed that Aechmea blanchetiana exhibited the highest average soil moisture content at 93.3%. The average soil pH was 7.0, while the average nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) contents were 36.3 mg/kg, 34 mg/kg, and 71.3 mg/kg, respectively. These values were higher than those observed in soils planted with Neoregelia cruenta and Aechmea malva, respectively. The water retention capacity of Aechmea blanchetiana also had the highest average value of 93.3%, exceeding that of Neoregelia cruenta and Aechmea malva. Bromeliad plants were found to play an important role in water retention within small-scale ecosystems by helping to maintain soil moisture and improve soil conditions suitable for the growth of other plant species. Furthermore, the findings provide useful reference data supporting the use of bromeliads as ornamental plants with ecological benefits. Beyond their aesthetic value, bromeliads contribute significantly to water conservation and the maintenance of environmental balance in cultivated areas.