Companion plants assist in pest management and soil enrichment through: Pest Management: Certain plants repel pests naturally or attract beneficial insects that prey on pests. For example, marigolds can repel nematodes, and basil can deter aphids. Soil Enrichment: Leguminous plants (like beans and pRead more
Companion plants assist in pest management and soil enrichment through:
- Pest Management: Certain plants repel pests naturally or attract beneficial insects that prey on pests. For example, marigolds can repel nematodes, and basil can deter aphids.
- Soil Enrichment: Leguminous plants (like beans and peas) fix nitrogen in the soil, enhancing fertility for neighboring plants. Deep-rooted companions (like comfrey) can bring up nutrients from deeper soil layers.
- Biodiversity: A diverse plant ecosystem reduces the risk of pest outbreaks and diseases, promoting a healthier garden.
- Physical Benefits: Some plants provide shade, support, or act as windbreaks for more delicate crops.
These benefits create a more resilient and productive agricultural environment.
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Vertical Farming Vertical farming means growing crops on vertical surfaces with stacked layers. Unlike horizontal farming, vertical farming is usually done in warehouses, greenhouses, skyscrapers, shipping containers and other indoor facilities. Vertical farming aims to maximise plant growth using sRead more
Vertical Farming
Vertical farming means growing crops on vertical surfaces with stacked layers. Unlike horizontal farming, vertical farming is usually done in warehouses, greenhouses, skyscrapers, shipping containers and other indoor facilities. Vertical farming aims to maximise plant growth using soilless farming techniques.
Everything from leafy greens to common crops can be grown in vertical farming. For vertical farming, an artificial environment is created by regulating temperature, light-controlling technology, bees, robotics and other Japanese techniques.
Advantages of Vertical Farming-
- Consistent crop production throughout the year- As vertical farming is unaffected by weather, it leads to increased crop yield and quality produce without disrupting local flora and fauna.
- Reduced space- Vertical farming does not need fertile land and can be grown on a smaller land area by expanding upwards.
- Minimises water wastage- It requires only 10% of the water, nutrients and fertilisers used in traditional farming. Also, the used water can be further recycled.
- Environmental-friendly- It requires no fossil fuels, chemicals or pesticides to grow.
- Energy Efficient- It reduces transportation costs and can generate power too.
- Safe and cost-effective- Vertical farming is safe for staff with a lower risk of injury. It is cost-efficient as it requires less low-level skilled labor.
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