From soil to soil-less in horticulture: quality and typicity

In this review, the technique of soil-less cultivation of horticultural crops is analysed, the main differences between this and traditional cultivation techniques are described, and the advantages and disadvantages of each method in relation to the others are identified. Soilless cultivation has revolutionised various sectors of vegetable and floriculture production, and recent years have also seen interest being shown by Italian fruit crop producers, particularly those involved in table grape viticulture. The various issues related to the use of this technique are described in relation to the needs of the substrate, water management, and mineral nutrition of the different species, and to the fact that not all species are suitable for the application of soil-less cultivation. Finally, since the soil-less system is strongly influenced by Man and is increasingly conditioned by this, the links between the final product and the territory where it is grown appear to be very limited. This is particularly true in Italy where, for certain protected geographical indication food products, soil-less cultivation is prohibited.