Haryana scientists grow potatoes without soil using aeroponic technology

Aeroponics has made it possible to grow potatoes in midair, which was previously only possible underground.

Scientists are utilising this cutting-edge method to cultivate one of the most important food crops in the world without soil at the Potato Technology Institute in Shamgarh village of Haryana's Karnal district.

Aeroponics involves delivering nutrients directly to plant roots in the form of a fine mist. This method not only reduces the need for large tracts of farmland but also minimises the risk of soil-borne diseases, resulting in healthier and more uniform crops.

Dr Manoj Bhanukar, Deputy Director, Potato Technology Centre, Shamgarh (Karnal District) said, "Farmers who grow potatoes are facing problems because of planting the same crop repeatedly – there has been a significant increase in pests, diseases, and infestations in the soil due to that. For example, potato scab has started appearing, and these problems are increasing. To address these issues, we use aeroponics – which means (growing crops) without the use of soil, in a nutrient solution. The nutrients are applied in the form of mist, like vapour, directly to the root zones. Through aeroponics, we are carrying out seed production work."

Additionally, the institute is actively training farmers who want to switch to sustainable and disease-free farming practices by using aeroponic methods for potato cultivation.

He further adds that, "The process works like this: we have a tissue culture laboratory that is accredited by the Government of India. In the lab, we take culture tubes from CPRI (the Central Potato Research Institute) and grow young potato plants. These young plants are then transplanted into our aeroponics unit. After transplanting, mini tuber production starts in about 70–75 days. After that we begin harvesting and continue harvesting mini tubers for up to 90 days."

The institute has created a new potato variety called Kufri Uday that matures early, yields consistent, high-quality tubers, and exhibits strong resistance to common potato diseases in addition to this creative cultivation method.