Evaluación socioeconómica de la producción hidropónica de lechuga (Lactuca sativa l), apio (Apium graveolens l) y acelga (Beta vulgaris l), en el cantón Riobamba-Chimborazo

Abstract

This investigation aimed to evaluate socioeconomically the hydroponic production method in three crops: lettuce (Lactuca sativa L), celery (Apium graveolens L) and chard (Beta vulgaris L), in Riobamba-Chimborazo in which the hydroponic system was implemented, data was gathered to know the productivity of the crops; surveys were also carried out to evaluate the level of acceptance of the system by the inhabitants and producers in the urban area of Riobamba. In addition, an economic and financial analysis of the implementation was also carried out. Productivity results showed a yield of 38.09 tons per hectare for lettuce, chard with 37 tons per hectare and celery with 33 tons per hectare. The survey showed that 99% of the respondents accepted the implementation of the hydroponic system. Besides, the economic and financial evaluation was carried out where the benefit-cost ratio for the three crops was positive, but with a higher profitability for the lettuce crop with an Internal Rate of Return (IRR) of 45.77% and a Benefit/Cost (B/C) ratio of $2.73, which indicates that for every dollar invested, the profit is $1.73. It is concluded that the implementation of the hydroponic system is accepted by the inhabitants of Riobamba, which means that this project is viable, feasible and profitable with the crop of lettuce. It is recommended to prioritize this crop in the hydroponic system, as it is more profitable.