Diagnostics tool
A cultivation test is also used as a diagnostics tool. Because it is impossible to determine all risks in a laboratory setting, plants are used as an indicator. A number of different factors can influence the growth of a crop. If the cultivation test indicates a particular problem, further research can be carried out with a specific laboratory analysis.
Different test crops
If a certain risk factor is expected, then a different specific indicator crop is chosen for the cultivation test rather than the standard indicator crops of lettuce, cress and kohlrabi. Substrates such as expanded clay granules and pumice are too coarse to sow in. Therefore, an extract is drawn from this and added to the culture system in an aqueous solution for testing.
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