Scientists develop electrically conductive ‘soil’ that enhances crop growth by 50%

Scientists from Linkoping University in Sweden have developed an electrically conductive “soil,” known as eSoil, which resulted in a 50% increase in the growth of barley seedlings within 15 days when their roots were electrically stimulated. This innovative approach falls under the concept of hydroponics, a soilless cultivation method that relies on stimulating the root system through a new cultivation substrate. In hydroponic cultivation, plants grow without traditional soil, using only water, nutrients, and a substrate for root attachment.

Hydroponics operates as a closed system, enabling water recirculation to provide each seedling with precise nutrients. This method minimizes water usage and retains all nutrients within the system, a feature not possible in traditional cultivation. The researchers, presenting their findings in the journal PNAS, emphasized the potential of hydroponics to address growing food demands and climate change, particularly in urban environments with controlled settings.

While hydroponics is commonly used for crops like lettuce, herbs, and some vegetables, the researchers focused on grains, specifically barley, which is not typically cultivated using this method, except for fodder. The study demonstrated that barley seedlings grown in the conductive “soil” experienced a remarkable 50% increase in growth within 15 days, showcasing the benefits of electrical stimulation in hydroponic cultivation.

The eSoil developed by the researchers is composed of cellulose, in contrast to the non-biodegradable mineral wool typically used in hydroponics, which is also produced through an energy-intensive process. Cellulose, the most abundant biopolymer, offers an environmentally friendly alternative. Importantly, the study highlighted that the researchers’ eSoil has low energy consumption and eliminates the risk associated with high voltage used in previous root stimulation methods.

While acknowledging that hydroponics may not completely address food security, Eleni Stavrinidou, an associate professor at Linkoping University, emphasized its potential to assist in areas with limited arable land and challenging environmental conditions. The study opens avenues for further research and development in hydroponic cultivation.