Welcome to all things urban farming. Get practical tips to experiment with farming in the heart of the city.
It’s been a while. There’s a few reasons for that: work travels, exploring new places (ahead of a possible move) and the associated gardening setbacks. When I travel I am lucky enough that friends offer to come and water plants. However, that’s often not quite enough, so a few two-week trips later and the plants are suffering. I expect the next few months to be similar. So, I need your help!
Some great news: the days of throwing down far too many dollars for a sprig of rosemary are behind you. No more paying through the nose for some limp, wilting and teenage-sulk-looking basil for your pasta, because you can grow those herbs at home. Some recent studies have suggested that transportation of some herbs, fruit and veg can reduce the nutritional value by as much as 40%, which is another incentive!
The market for more visually appealing indoor hydroponic (and aquaponics) kits is growing. This isn’t a new topic, and one I’ve covered a few times before. But with the marketing splash made by IKEA recently and some of the innovations as products are tweaked, it’s time to have a look again. And please do let me know your thoughts on the visual/décor aspects, cost and general efficiency of these growing kits!