Increasing sustainability of growing media constituents and stand-alone substrates in soilless culture systems

Abstract

Peat-free growing media constituents and stand-alone substrates are the basis for the economic and ecological efficiency of the soilless culture system. Nevertheless, divergence between the model and practice still exists, coming from large gaps in the knowledge of alternative organic materials and of their effects on crop performance. A more detailed understanding of these topics is necessary to increase the soilless culture management capacity. In this respect, this critical review collects research outcomes concerning the sustainability of soilless culture and growing media constituents and their impact on the environment. In particular, the review covers designated articles stressing the pros and cons of soilless culture and growing media constituents, the exploitation of different organic materials and their economic and environmental relevance.