Development of an Industrial-size Aeroponic Rooting System and Plant Cutting Rooting Studies

Aeroponic agriculture is an innovative system that allows plants to grow and develop by by misting water directly onto the bare root zone. Thus, oxygen and water, which often limit root growth in traditional soil-based systems, can be provided at optimal levels in this system. Within the scope of the study, an industrial-sized aeroponic rooting unit was designed and manufactured. After drawings were made in the digital environment, the manufacturing process started. The unit consists of three vertical lines, each composed of three levels. Nine cabins were produced, each cabin measuring 2x0.4x1 m. The control unit is designed to independently control each cabin's humidity, temperature, lighting, and ventilation features. The study examined the potential of aeroponic agriculture, focusing primarily on the effects of the aeroponic system on the growth of plant roots and its performance on various plant species. Within the scope of the study, the rooting performances of black mulberry (Morus nigra) and Judas tree (Cercis siliquastrum) cuttings, which are very difficult to root with traditional methods, were examined in perlite and aeroponic environments. The effect of cutting time, growth regulator doses, and various parameters on root formation and development during the rooting process were examined. In black mulberry hardwood cuttings, 6000 ppm IBA application in the aeroponic system resulted in the highest rooting rate (85.19%) and callus formation rate (96.30%). The rooting rate of black mulberry wood cuttings in perlite medium with 6000 ppm IBA application was 59.26%. Application of 4000 ppm IBA on black mulberry green cuttings in the aeroponic system reached the highest callus formation rate (92.59%) and rooting rate (81.48%). These values show a significant increase compared to the control group. At the same time, the highest rooting rate (74.08%) in perlite medium was again obtained with 4000 ppm IBA application. Application of 6000 ppm IBA to Judas tree green cuttings in the aeroponic system reached the highest rooting rate (29.63%) and callus formation rate (25.92%). It has been observed that the aeroponic system is more successful in terms of rooting rates and number of roots compared to perlite media.