A Beginner’s Guide to Vertical Farming: A look at what vertical farming is, why people do it, and how to get started at home

Did you know that some farms grow upwards rather than outwards?

Vertical farming is an expanding type of agriculture focused on saving space and feeding our communities. But how does vertical farming work, and are there other benefits to growing upwards?

How Does Vertical Farming Work?

Vertical farming is the practice of growing crops and other plants stacked on top of each other! Three types of techniques are used in vertical farming: aeroponics, hydroponics, and aquaponics.

Aeroponic vertical farming relies on a balance of air and mist. Roots are exposed and sprayed with mist several times per hour. These plants are grown in vertical tubes without soil and require very little water. The better the aeration, the faster the growth.

As discussed in a previous blog, hydroponics involves planting roots in a liquid-only mix of water and nutrients. Hydroponic vertical farming grows plants in containers of solution stacked on each other.

Aquaponic vertical farming combines aquaculture and hydroponics. Like hydroponic farming, plants are grown without soil in pools of water and nutrients. However, aquaponic farming integrates an ecosystem of organisms into the system. The waste from these organisms helps to feed the plants organically.

Vertical farming utilizes a variety of systems to save space. These systems include racks, containers, towers, and rotational conveyors. Each has its own pros and cons, and some are best for specific plants.

The Pros and Cons of Vertical Farming

It is important to note that vertical farming has many advantages and disadvantages, as with any other form of agriculture.
Of course, one of the most significant benefits of vertical farming is the reduction of space necessary for successful growth. Vertical farming takes up less farmland, and growers can utilize urban areas otherwise unavailable due to space constraints. Vertical farming also requires less water and pesticides, as these farms are often planted indoors, allowing farmers to control environmental conditions and keep plants safe from pests. These factors mean farmers can grow crops all year regardless of the season or weather conditions.

Much like hydroponic farming, a vertical farm is expensive to get started. Equipment and supplies are specialized, so the up-front cost is often greater than that of a “normal” garden. Vertical farming consumes a lot of energy and requires a controlled climate and numerous plant lights. Even though farmers can grow crops all year, crop variety is limited, as these systems can only support certain kinds of plants.

Vertical Farming at Home

If you have a green thumb and want a vertical farm, you can start one right in your house! Click here to watch a DIY YouTube video to learn how to build your first structure and get your vertical garden growing! Small-scale vertical farms are a great way to get plants in your space and produce a few of your own vegetables.

We love learning about various growing techniques, from conventional to aeroponic. As we work to preserve agricultural spaces, we’re excited to see new and exciting ways to integrate agriculture into urban spaces. We wish all growers, from traditional to vertical, the best of luck in the coming months!

References:
https://artechno-growsystems.com/news/the-scoop-on-vertical-farming-systems
https://www.edengreen.com/blog-collection/what-is-vertical-farming#:~:text=in%20your%20browser.-,What%20is%20Vertical%20Farming%3F,land%20(or%20even%20less).
https://mottech.com/news/understanding-the-pros-and-cons-of-vertical-farming/#:~:text=It%20is%20important%20to%20note,costs%20and%20special%20equipment%20requirements.