Vertical, indoor farming is popular in many countries for its economic use of space, and the ability to grow large volumes of produce in a controlled environment.
Now, Pick n Pay Constantia in Cape Town and Pick n Pay On Nicol in Johannesburg will boast their own in-store vertical farms in collaboration with CAN-Agri (Clean Air Nurseries). ‘Our design optimises the use of sunlight, a free and natural energy source to the largest extent possible. LED light is only used as a supplementing light source if needed, keeping energy costs very low,’ said CAN-Agri on Facebook.
These stores will have their pick of the crop, so to speak, of organic lettuce and herbs.
Vertical farming makes year-round farming possible, and allows for the use of up to 95% less water than traditional farming, according to Mail and Guardian. The farming methods usually include hydroponic systems, which means the plants are not planted in soil but instead in oxygenated, nutrient-rich water.
CAN-Agri’s plants are all free of pesticides and the temperature, humidity, UV, and ventilation in which the plants grow are constantly monitored and each grow tower holds up to 80 plants.
Picture: Screenshot from video
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