Soilless solutions for resource-efficient crop production
Over the past several decades, growing plants and crops in containers instead of in the field has revolutionized global horticultural production practices. These soilless culture practices introduce new opportunities to produce crops in individual containers, offering growers complete control and increased resource-use efficiency. This shift means food can be produced near urban areas, mitigating food deserts and improving production sustainability, particularly timely transportation of harvested crops. Recent global modeling shows that soilless substrate use and reliance could grow four-fold over the next 30 years.
In response, Louisiana State University AgCenter researchers are investigating the best soilless culture for maximum crop efficiency. Their research found water and fertilizer application rates can be decreased by 25% while maintaining or improving crop productivity and quality. Root growth also improved. Replacing 50% peat-based product in the container with cheaper materials, such as bark, does not reduce crop quality and can provide substantial cost savings and increase profitability.
Project supported by Hatch funds. Photo courtesy LSU Ag Center.
