Mars Soil Grow Tomatoes, Spinach, Peas n Chives

Researchers in the Netherlands experiment with ten different crops using soil taken from a volcano in Hawaii designed to mimic conditions found on Mars.

In the latest experiment the team grew peas, rocket, radishes and cress, along with leeks, spinach and chives.

But it was the tomatoes that were perhaps the most impressive - with images released showing plump produce with a vibrant red colour.

While the Mars-equivalent soil produced slightly fewer crops than regular Earth soil, the results suggest that early colonisers could be able to sustainably feed themselves.

Lead researcher Wieger Wamelink said: "It shows that the Mars soil simulant has great potential when properly prepared and watered."

The volcanic soil was mixed with fresh cut grass in shallow trays, while a control tray contained regular Earth compost.

But before you decide to pack your bags for Mars - there are a couple of issues to note with the experiment.

The plants are likely to be grown underground on Mars, at first

While the soil resembled that found on Mars, the experiment did not mimic the other conditions found on the Red Planet - such as extreme temperatures and harsh space radiation. 

Instead, the crops enjoyed stable humidity, light and temperature.