A study by two Purdue University researchers, published in the journal Advances in Space Research, shows how sweet potatoes can be grown by cutting down the plant’s usual growing space while not reducing the amount of food it can produce. Since the sweet potato plant is known for growing all over the place, the researchers had to figure out how to force the plant to grow vertically. Using cylindrically-shaped wire cages, they managed to make the vines grow in a tame upright fashion. This vertical position is perfect for growing in outer space, since it makes the plants more stackable. The next move the researchers want to make is to provide a source of light for the plants. If everything falls into place, we may not only have a new space crop but also an extra-terrestrial addition to Thanksgiving.
Source: Science Daily, Purdue University
