Bioponics growth system to promote beneficial root traits in small fruit and vegetable crops

Bioponics is an innovative form of container gardening that uses patented processes to create ideal growing
conditions for edible crops. The company, Bioponix Agricultural Corp., has developed a specialized Bioponix
growing container, along with a liquid organic fertilizer and soil conditioner with a bioactive nutritive consortium.
This partnership project will document the growth of strawberry, tomato, cucumber, bell pepper, lettuce and basil
in a bioponics system, compared to hydroponics and field soil. We will measure the antioxidant capacity and
vitamin C content of all harvested fruits and vegetables, and study their root traits to understand the yield
responses. Rising food prices are encouraging Canadians to purchase more nutritious, locally-grown fruits and
vegetables. The bioponics system may be a good option for urban households with limited gardening space, and
for commercial greenhouses who are concerned about production costs. Study results will demonstrate the technoeconomic
benefits of the bioponics system, a novel method of container gardening with potential to meet the needs
of households and commercial growers in Canada.

Faculty Supervisor:

Joann Whalen

Student:

Partner:

Bioponix Agriculture Corp.

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Agriculture

University:

McGill University

Program: