Going Above and Beyond: Vertical Gardening
In vertical farming custom-built frames can be used to create a structure, offering flexibility in design and size.
Space is usually tight in urban agriculture operations. Market growers have to be creative in their design. Vertical farming is the practice of growing crops up rather than across the ground. A design may be as simple as a trellis to as complex as a multistory hydroponic facility. Vertical farming often occurs in a more controlled-environment, which assists in controlling inputs to optimize plant growth, and involves soilless farming techniques such as hydroponics, aquaponics, and aeroponics. There are four main components of a vertical farm; structure, containers, plants, and irrigation.
Structures in vertical farming include but are not limited to; walls, trellises, frames, baskets, and pallets. Existing walls, fences, or even repurposed structures can serve as the base for a vertical garden. Trellises provide support for climbing plants and can be made from various materials like wood, metal, or even bamboo. Custom-built frames can be used to create a vertical garden structure, offering flexibility in design and size. Hanging baskets and planters allow plants to grow downwards, adding a unique dimension to vertical gardens. Tiered beds can create a layered effect, maximizing space and allowing for different plant heights. Upcycled pallets can be transformed into vertical planters, offering an eco-friendly and creative option.
Plants need to be kept in containers or pockets. Individual pots can be attached to the vertical structure, allowing for easy plant replacement and maintenance. Pre-vegetated panels or modules can be used to create a seamless and visually appealing vertical garden. Fabric or plastic pockets are attached to the structure and hold the growing medium and plants. Almost anything that can hold the plant roots and keep them moist will work. Growing media may not be used as follows what container is being used and the plant grown.
Many different types of plants may be grown in vertical farming. Vines, herbs, and other plants that naturally grow upwards are ideal for vertical gardens. Plants that cascade down are suitable for hanging baskets or tiered planters. Vertical gardens can be used to grow a variety of edible plants like herbs, and vegetables saving space and providing fresh produce. Succulents and groundcovers thrive in vertical gardens and add visual interest.
Vertical gardens can be used to grow a variety of edible plants like herbs, and vegetables saving space and providing fresh produce.
Drainage, labor, access and types of systems are important considerations when designing an irrigation system. Proper drainage is essential to prevent waterlogging and root rot. Drip irrigation or other automated systems ensure efficient and consistent watering and save in daily labor. Where you will gain water access and how much you can store are factors in planning. Some systems incorporate reservoirs to store water and extend watering intervals. A consistent watering schedule is critical.
Vertical farming is a valuable option for growing plants in a tight area. The size and type of operation is only limited by the design and materials available. South Dakota has several vertical gardens that can be found on the SDSPA website in the Producer Locator section. S.D. western neighbor Wyoming has a new vertical farm operation called Vertical Harvest to check out. With the value of land increasing and the population growing, vertical farming is an important option maintaining the food supply.