The Rise of Vertical Farming: Revolutionizing Agriculture
- By Cloe Bentz
As the population grows about 1% per year and fertile land is reduced, innovative solutions are needed to meet the demand for fresh produce. Vertical farming is an approach that can be traced back to the early 20th century – and it’s transforming the future of urban agriculture.
How Vertical Farming Works
Vertical Farming is the practice of growing crops in vertically stacked layers, often in controlled environments like warehouses or skyscrapers. This method of farming utilizes indoor farming techniques and controlled environment technology. Most vertical farms do not even use soil, instead using techniques such as hydroponics, aquaponics, and aeroponics.
The Benefits of Vertical Farming
Reduced Water Usage: Vertical farms use up to 70% less water than traditional farms as they recycle the water used.
Small use of Pesticides: By being inside a controlled environment, vertical farms are less vulnerable to pests, requiring fewer (if any) pesticides.
Year-Round Crop Production: Controlled environments allow vertical farms to constantly produce crops, regardless of what season it is.
Reduces Transportation Costs and Pollution: By being able to place these vertical farms anywhere, vertical farming can cut down on transportation costs and reduce fuel consumption.
Production Potential
Vertical Farming can produce 50 to 100 times more yield per square foot than traditional farming. For example, one acre of a vertical farm offers an equivalent production of a 10 to 20 outdoor acre farm.
The Future of Farming
As the technology behind vertical farming develops more, it will become even more efficient and cost-friendly. Innovations in LED lighting, climate control, and nutrient systems are continually improving to reduce operational costs. Vertical Farming has the potential to meet the increasing food demands while fighting the loss of land.
Hydroponic Farms at Thanksgiving Point
Interested in learning more about how vertical farming can transform food production and sustainability? Head over to Farm Country to check out our new vertical farming exhibit and witness firsthand the future of farming.
