Scientists grow chickpeas in simulated moon soil up to 75% regolith
Mar 9th 2026
A Texas A&M team grew chickpeas in mixtures mainly made of simulated lunar soil using fungal seed coatings and worm compost, producing harvestable crops at up to 75 percent regolith while 100 percent regolith failed; safety tests for metal contamination are pending.
- Texas A&M researchers produced harvestable chickpeas in soil mixes containing up to 75 percent lunar regolith simulant.
- Higher proportions of regolith reduced chickpea yield while individual seed size stayed roughly the same.
- Seeds planted in 100 percent regolith failed to flower and died early.
- Researchers coated seeds with beneficial fungi and added vermicompost to improve nutrient uptake and soil structure.
- Lunar regolith lacks organic matter and can contain high metal levels, so harvested chickpeas are being tested for metal accumulation before any consumption.
- Results published in Scientific Reports show growing food on the moon may be feasible but more work is needed for safety and consistent yields.