Cultivated wild plants make for good dietary staples.
Strawberries, meanwhile, have long been a desired item, with global harvest currently topping 10 million tonnes annually. A US research team recently achieved a 3.5 fold increase in strawberry yields, and their methods could help meet long-term consumption needs.
The young plants were kept under a tunnel covered with 3D knitted fabric that was initially developed as protection against pests. Sunlight, water and air penetrated through to the plants, creating a warm microclimate.
Optimal conditions for plants to reach the fruiting stage earlier, but also significantly increasing the size and weight of fruits. Further tests with other plants are planned.
Another densely knitted elastic material for clothes helps keep mosquitoes out.
