Sustainable plant cultivation in Lunar regolith: Feasibility study

Abstract Lunar regolith is a potential substrate for plant cultivation in future bioregenerative life-support systems; however, its distinct physicochemical properties pose challenges for plant growth. In this study, white mustard was grown in mare (LMS) and highland-type (LHS) regolith simulants, each separated into fine and coarse particle-size fractions, with perlite as a control. Germination was successful across all treatments. Biomass production and reproductive performance were generally lower in regolith simulants compared with the control. Plants grown in LMS produced slightly lighter seeds than those grown in LHS, with statistically significant differences observed in the LMS coarse fraction. These results likely reflect differences in simulant chemistry, as LMS contains higher concentrations of Fe, Mg, and trace elements that may influence plant physiological responses. Particle-size distribution also affected substrate behavior, with fine fractions showing higher water retention and coarse fractions improving aeration but reducing moisture availability. These results clarify that both substrate chemistry and particle size critically affect plant productivity in lunar regolith-based agriculture.