Geologists simulate soil conditions to help grow plants on Mars. Humankind's next giant step may be onto Mars. But before those missions can begin, scientists need to make scores of breakthrough advances, including learning how to grow crops on the red planet. Source 6z.
Great work, I'd like to also see more research and applications on growing plants indoor. The air purifying capacity tied with the small surface available in medium-large cities and metropolis could satisfy a lot of unmet needs (And reduce some pollution introduced by truck travelling in and out).
The plant that could grow on the surface of Mars and that would serve as fertilizer. A group of scientists simulated the soil on Mars and discovered that alfalfa is capable of growing there. Accompanied by photosynthetic bacteria, this plant serves as a fertilizer for lettuce, radishes and turnips.