Development of Production Model of Andrographis paniculata with Vertical Farming Technology that Environmentally Friendly for Farmers Thakradan Subdistrict, Sanam chaikhet District, Chachoengsao Province

Abstract

The objective of this research was to develop a production model of Andrographis paniculata using vertical farming technology that is environmentally friendly for farmers. This research uses quantitative methodology using questionnaires and comparison of plant growth and qualitative methodology using small group discussion. The research results found that sample group of farmers saw benefits from vertical farming technology accounted for 75 percent and there was a desire to participate in the development of vertical agricultural technology models accounting for 90 percent. The vertical agricultural technology model for used in growing Andrographis paniculata in the area has 3 methods (TR), the results of plant growth revealed that different methods of watering and fertilizing as a result, Andrographis paniculata has an average plant height, average leaf width, average number of leaves, average plant fresh weight, average root fresh weight and average root lengths were significantly different at the 0.01 level. By the method of providing water through a nano-bubble machine and adding oxygen together with providing liquid fertilizer (TR 3) as a result, the plants have an average plant height, average leaf width and the highest average number of leaves in every plant life stage 20, 30 and 45 days after planting, plants had average plant fresh weight rate, average root fresh weight rate and the average root length rate increased by 0.83 g/plant/day, 0.64 g/plant/day, and 0.44 cm/day, respectively. Farmers are interested in using vertical farming technology in the area, because it is seen as modern technology, saves water and energy, does not destroy the soil, reduces the use of plant growing areas, simple and uncomplicated watering and fertilizer management system, making the production stable and environmentally friendly.