In phytoextraction, plants are grown in contaminated soil. These plants have the unique ability to take up high levels of contaminants through their roots and translocate them to above-ground parts such as stems and leaves. Once the plants have accumulated the contaminants, they are harvested and disposed of safely. The key steps include:
Selection of suitable hyperaccumulator plants. Growing these plants in contaminated soil. Harvesting the plants after they have accumulated significant amounts of contaminants. Safe disposal or processing of the contaminated plant biomass.
