Have you ever heard about hydroponic farming? If you have not this might be a game-changer for you. Especially if you are passionate about horticulture this is definitely for you. Hydroponic farming is a farming approach that entails the use of limited space, no soil, less water (by 90 or so per cent) and much faster maturation periods (by 50 or so per cent). In light of the evident effects of climate change, hydroponic farming can be the perfect go-to. I once mentioned Venensia Mukarati who started hydroponic farming in her backyard in Harare. She then went on start 160 Hydro Farm.

Hydroponic Farming Setups In Pomona Farmer’s Market And Bon Marche (Borrowdale)

Right now if you go to Pomona Farmer’s Market or Bon Marche in Borrowdale you will have these setups. These are hydroponic farms that have been set up in supermarkets. The first setup was done in Pomona Farmer’s Market. The second setup or live hydroponic farm was set up in Bon Marche – in Borrowdale. What this means is that you can now go and buy live vegetables in-store. Some of the vegetables included are basil, Fancy and Butter lettuce.

How Game-Changing This Is

Freshness And Preservation Of Nutrients

Studies have shown that vegetables start losing moisture as soon they are harvested. Never mind that you can put in place the most pristine cold storage mechanism. From the moment you pluck off the vegetables from the host, freshness starts diminishing. After just 3 days, it has been found that nutrient levels would have started plummeting despite using refrigeration. So imagine the implications when vegetables have to be transported first from farms to supermarkets. By the time they arrive and are put up for sale, they would have significantly lost freshness and nutrient quality. Having a hydroponic system installed and running live in-store will guarantee that consumers buy superior quality vegetables. The unique value proposition offered through this is unbeatable.

Streamlining Of The Supply Chain

Having a live hydroponic system in-store eliminates so many costs. The distribution channel is remarkably shortened which translates into fewer costs and convenience. Convenience for the customers in that they can get the desired product immediately. Convenience for the shop in that they do not risk losses given the perishability of vegetables. How much it costs to produce or make available the product is also significantly reduced. There is also a supply dynamic this whole approach brings. This is a ground-breaking innovation and competition is still literally zero. Plus this gets to outpace other traditional suppliers who have to transport their produce first.

Great Opportunity For Numerous Players

If you happen to sell fresh farm produce it might be a great idea to have a live hydroponic farm in-store. This could not only bring in revenue but also create the necessary buzz for people to come in-store. Caterers such as restaurants, hotels, and the like could benefit from this concept. You can also just have the same setup done at your home. The beauty of all this is that you do not even need to have much space.

For example, a 44-plant hydroponic system costs roughly US$280. Included would be a solar or electric pump, a nutrients starter, various seeds or seedlings, jiffy pallets for the seeds. Take note that the solar panel will not be included. A 128-plant hydroponic system can perfectly fit on a balcony. This would cost around US$680 (for the full setup with an electric pump). If you are interested in getting into hydroponic farming you can get in touch with 160 Hydro Farm. You can WhatsApp them via +263 773 938 188 or their Facebook page.