Vertical farms are a unique invention that has been a breakthrough in farming. On vertical farms, crops are grown indoors, under artificial conditions of light and temperature. The main goal: to grow more plants in less time and with fewer resources. Soilless methods such as hydroponics, aquaponics and aeroponics are used here. Vertical farming uses much less water and pesticides than traditional farming methods. Being indoors, the crop is independent of the seasons and hence gives high yields all year round. Lettuce, tomatoes and green crops can be produced through this practice.
Pros of vertical farming
Many farmers are already switching to this type of growing crops. By the way, in New Zealand, such a farm has already launched sales. Products can be found in major stores in New Zealand.
What are the advantages of vertical farms?
Year-round harvest
The biggest advantage of vertical farming is the fact that it is not dependent on the weather. This means that you can achieve a consistent harvest all year round without worrying about the impact of unfavorable weather conditions on production and yields. Farming in a protected, well controlled and managed environment gives gardeners confidence and peace of mind and predictable yields. By removing the influence of Mother Nature, the concept of “seasonal culture” disappears.
Independence from weather and climate conditions
Growing in a fully enclosed, climate controlled environment completely eliminates the need to rely on or worry about the weather. Field crops can be ruined by excessive rain, wind and drought (or pests!). Vertical farming provides 100% crop certainty.
Efficient use of space
It goes without saying that traditional farms need fertile arable land. But vertical farms can be designed and built in any climate and location – regardless of weather conditions or temperature extremes, topography and soil type.
Minimal water consumption
One of the major advantages of vertical farming is that hydroponic growing uses only about 10% of water. Since the water remains clean after use, this also allows it to be recycled and reused, reducing costs and minimizing waste.
Sustainability
Home vertical farming can be good for the environment because these farms greatly reduce the amount of fossil fuels needed for farm equipment that is not needed for seeding, fertilizing, weeding and harvesting on vertical farms.
No chemicals or pesticides
Growing food on a vertical farm, if properly managed, makes it possible to completely eliminate the need for pesticides because pests cannot penetrate the controlled environment to cause crop damage. As for fungal diseases, they struggle to hold on as moisture levels are controlled. The end result is a product that is better, healthier, safer, with dried leaves. They are clean and ready to eat.
Reduced transportation costs
When it comes to food production, shipping is usually the most expensive part of the supply chain. And crops are often shipped across continents and oceans. Growing food closer to where the consumer lives is a huge advantage for vertical farming, as it can significantly reduce transportation costs, CO2 emissions and the need for refrigerator storage, making food fresher and more profitable.