Potential for Greenhouse Aeroponic Cultivation of Urtica dioica

Chris Pagliarulo, M.S. student Plant Sciences

Medicinal crops like Echinacea, Burdock, Ginger, Stinging Nettles and Yerba Mansa are being studied to determine whether aeroponic technology can improve the quality, quantity, and cost efficiency of their production. Aeroponics is a form of hydroponics in which plants are grown with their roots suspended in an open chamber and misted with nutrient solutions. Because aeroponic systems maximize the availability of oxygen to the roots, plants can exhibit phenomenal growth. Aeroponics allows full access to the roots during the entire life of the crop. The technique also provides effective control over the root zone, which is important when the desired products are phytochemicals produced within the roots. Root zone environmental conditions can be manipulated to maximize desired phytochemicals and reduce others, something impossible to do in soil. Supported by an NIH-SBIR grant.
Cooperators: Dr. Teena Hayden, Native American Botanics, Dr. Gene Giacomelli, and Technical support: Mr. Stephen Kania