Biodegradable Pots for Seedlings

Abstract

Biodegradable containers are environmentally friendly options to plastic pots commonly used in nursery and greenhouse activities. The use of plantable and compostable pots based on renewable and natural materials derived from waste or by-products of industrial processes have a potential market to enhance the sustainable character of current production systems. This chapter presents an analysis of the state-of-the-art on the development of biodegradable pots. Plantable and compostable containers made of different renewable materials, which are studied in the academic field up to patents and commercial products, are presented. Particularly, advantages and disadvantages respect to price, processability, mechanical properties, handling performance, plant quality, water-use efficiency and biodegradability are deeply analyzed and discussed.