Aim of the study:
The aim of this research was to develop transparent hydrogel soils to monitor the development of the root system.

Material and methods:
Polysaccharide hydrogels were made from gellan gum, sucrose and glycerine with universal medium. Absorbance testing, microscopic observation and thermal analysis (TG, DSC, DMA) were used to assess the primary qualities of the hydrogels. Observation of mould growth on the substrate was also carried out and the effect of the developed substrate on plant growth was analysed.

Results and conclusions:
The research has shown that to obtain the good transparency it is crucial to use a minimum amount of gellan gum. The hydrogels show good resistance to cyclic loading and adequate thermal stability. Plants growing in the obtained transparent soil (substrate) developed in a similar way to the ones in natural soil. Transparent soil is a highly versatile medium due to its ability to adapt the hydration level of the environment to the needs of the plant, and to facilitate monitoring of plant growth, development of the root system and appropriate selection of seedlings.