Now, the team is evaluating the recyclable glass material as a viable substitute for soil.
In a greenhouse on campus, they’re growing cilantro, bell pepper, and jalapeño plants in a variety of pots containing anywhere from 100% commercial potting soil to 100% recycled glass.
Pots with more soil have higher levels of nutrients required for plant growth, including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, compared to those with more glass.
But there’s little difference in pH level among the pots, which the researchers say is a “promising” result because plants thrive in a narrow soil pH range.
Early results suggest that the plants grown in recyclable glass have faster growth rates and retain more water compared to those grown in 100% traditional soil.
“A weight ratio of more than 50% of glass particles to soil appears best for plant growth compared to the other mixtures we tested,” said Dr. Vanegas.
The researchers are waiting until harvest time to confirm what soil mixture produces the highest yields – and tastiest produce.
Pots with 100% potting soil developed a fungus that stunted plant growth.
Feria believes the fungus may impact nutrient uptake by the roots.
But the pots that included any amount of recyclable glass didn’t have any fungal growth. The researchers are collecting data to determine why that might be.
These results are particularly promising because the study was done without fertilizers, pesticides, or fungicides.
Quezada noted, from her experience working in agriculture, that a lot of the chemicals applied to the land impact people such as her family members who work or live around farming communities.
She added: “I think it’s really important to try to minimize the usage of any chemicals that can negatively affect our health.
“If we are able to reduce them, and help the community by collecting recyclables, then we can give people a better quality of life.”
The findings were presented at a meeting of the American Chemical Society in Denver, Colorado.
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