Growing root, tuber and nut crops hydroponically for CELSS. |
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Authors: | W A Hill D G Mortley C L Mackowiak P A Loretan T W Tibbitts R M Wheeler C K Bonsi C E Morris |
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Affiliation: | George Washington Carver Agricultural Experiment Station, Tuskegee University, AL 36088. |
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Abstract: | Among the crops selected by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration for growth in controlled ecological life support systems are four that have subsurface edible parts -- potatoes, sweet potatoes, sugar beets and peanuts. These crops have been produced in open and closed (recirculating), solid media and liquid, hydroponic systems. Fluorescent , fluorescent plus incandescent and high pressure sodium plus metal halide lamps have proven to be effective light sources. Continuous light with 16 degrees C and 28/22 degrees C (day/night) temperatures have produced highest yields for potato and sweet potato, respectively. Dry weight yields of up to 4685, 2541, 1151 and 207 g m-2 for for potatoes, sweet potatoes, sugar beets and peanuts, respectively, have been produced in controlled environment hydroponic systems. |
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