Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is the primary concern driving the development of alternative farming methods?
What is the primary concern driving the development of alternative farming methods?
What is the purpose of the filter system in the hydroponics method used at Growing Underground?
What is the purpose of the filter system in the hydroponics method used at Growing Underground?
What is the function of the LED lights used in Underground Farming?
What is the function of the LED lights used in Underground Farming?
What is the advantage of using recycled carpet as a substrate in hydroponics?
What is the advantage of using recycled carpet as a substrate in hydroponics?
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How does Underground Farming reduce water usage compared to open-field farming?
How does Underground Farming reduce water usage compared to open-field farming?
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What is the purpose of the propagation tunnel in the farm's process?
What is the purpose of the propagation tunnel in the farm's process?
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What is the benefit of controlled temperature, humidity, and CO2 levels in Underground Farming?
What is the benefit of controlled temperature, humidity, and CO2 levels in Underground Farming?
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What is the effect of the closed environment on the need for heating and cooling in Underground Farming?
What is the effect of the closed environment on the need for heating and cooling in Underground Farming?
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What is the advantage of using hydroponics in Underground Farming?
What is the advantage of using hydroponics in Underground Farming?
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What is the benefit of the specific spectrum of the LED lights used in Underground Farming?
What is the benefit of the specific spectrum of the LED lights used in Underground Farming?
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Study Notes
The Future of Farming
- Farming is a vital industry, and as available space on the planet decreases, the future of farming is a pressing concern.
Hydroponics and Underground Farming
- Hydroponics is a method of growing plants where nutrients are added to water, which is then carried to the plant through a system.
- At Growing Underground, a farm in Clapham, London, this method is used to grow crops 33 meters underground.
- The farm uses recycled carpet as a substrate for the seeds to hold on to, and a filter system cleans and recirculates the water.
Lighting and Photosynthesis
- Since sunlight is not available underground, the farm uses LED lights to provide the necessary spectrum and intensity for plant growth.
- The LEDs provide a specific spectrum, including blue, red, green, orange, and yellow, which is essential for plant growth.
Benefits of Underground Farming
- Underground farming allows for controlled temperature, humidity, and CO2 levels, making it possible to recreate ideal environments for different crops.
- This approach enables year-round growth, reducing water usage by 70% compared to open-field farming.
- The closed environment also reduces the need for heating and cooling, making it a more efficient method of growing crops.
Propagation and Harvesting
- Seeds are sown on a matting and placed in a propagation tunnel, where they germinate in darkness, tricking the crops into thinking they're underground.
- After germination, the plants are moved to the underground farm, where they're grown and eventually harvested.
- The harvested produce is sold to local restaurants and shops within the M25, minimizing carbon footprint.
Hydroponics and Underground Farming
- Hydroponics is a method of growing plants where nutrients are added to water, which is then carried to the plant through a system.
- At Growing Underground, a farm in Clapham, London, hydroponics is used to grow crops 33 meters underground.
- The farm uses recycled carpet as a substrate for the seeds to hold on to, and a filter system cleans and recirculates the water.
Lighting and Photosynthesis
- Since sunlight is not available underground, the farm uses LED lights to provide the necessary spectrum and intensity for plant growth.
- The LEDs provide a specific spectrum, including blue, red, green, orange, and yellow, which is essential for plant growth.
Benefits of Underground Farming
- Underground farming allows for controlled temperature, humidity, and CO2 levels, making it possible to recreate ideal environments for different crops.
- Year-round growth is possible, reducing water usage by 70% compared to open-field farming.
- The closed environment also reduces the need for heating and cooling, making it a more efficient method of growing crops.
Propagation and Harvesting
- Seeds are sown on a matting and placed in a propagation tunnel, where they germinate in darkness, tricking the crops into thinking they're underground.
- After germination, the plants are moved to the underground farm, where they're grown and eventually harvested.
- The harvested produce is sold to local restaurants and shops within the M25, minimizing carbon footprint.
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Description
Explore the innovative methods of farming, including hydroponics and underground farming, to address the pressing concern of available space on the planet.
