As global populations continue to rise, it has become increasingly clear that drastic steps need to be taken and vertical farming might just be the thing that saves humanity. Not only is this an incredibly efficient means of producing food but it is also efficient at using resources in our environment. Keep reading to find out why you should take an active interest in this type of farming.
Vertical farming produces a massive amount of food
One of the most significant benefits associated with vertical farming is the sheer volume of food that can be produced in a relatively small space. Typically, these types of farms are built in greenhouses with a hydroponic watering system. This allows hundreds of plants to grow in the same amount of space that four plants would need in a land-based farm. This increases the yield, which is great news for grocery stores who need to purchase vast quantities of food to cater to the growing needs of their customers. In addition to producing more food, it also helps certain varieties of food to be available year round. In the past, farmers were limited to growing foods that were in season. However, the systems used in farms that use vertical planters are able to plant most varieties of food throughout the year. The greenhouse effect of the farms, UV lighting systems and regulated watering tricks plants into growing and bearing fruit throughout the year. This is excellent news as it encourages consumers to buy these products and keep the industry running.
It’s the cleanest farming method around
Vertical farming has a secret benefit that may surprise you. This is the one method of farming that releases the smallest amount of toxins into the environment. Plants farmed in this manner are highly regulated and are often placed in a sealed environment. This makes it difficult for pests to infiltrate the growing room, reducing the need for pesticides. Crops that are farmed without using pesticides and herbicides create a smaller carbon footprint as no toxic materials are required for them to flourish. In addition to reducing the number of pesticides used, this type of farming also rarely requires the use of any fertilisers. As the plants are grown in water, the nutrients released from their roots are combined with the liquids. Farmers then use that water for irrigation, which feeds these vital nutrients back to the plant. If fertilisers are necessary, these vertical farmers often make use of toxin-free varieties so as not to interfere with the natural properties of the plants.
It encourages healthier living
Due to the manner in which fruits and vegetables in vertical farming are grown, they are organic. This means that they do not contain any toxins that are harmful and not intended for human consumption. Organic farming principles are also great for the environment as the companies who produce pesticides and fertilisers have less business coming in. This means that they are not releasing as much carbon monoxide and poisons into our environment. Finally, the massive influx of fresh produce that is available in regions where these types of farms are in production means that a larger percentage of people are including fresh ingredients into their diets. There are many benefits associated with a diet that is largely plant-based. It helps to lower the levels of harmful cholesterol in your bloodstream while also making an impact on your blood pressure. It also helps to create a consciousness of the value of well-grown healthy food in our lives.
