OUR PROCESS: HYDROPONICS
Hydroponics is the process of growing plants in sand, gravel, or liquid, with added nutrients – but without soil. In these systems, the growth medium - or plant stand - is made up of substrates of different origins, which are organic, inorganic, inert, or active. This offers a variable rate of contributions to the mineral nutrition of plants. An in-line pump circulates nutrient enriched water through the plant’s root system, while natural lighting allows the plants to complete the normal photosynthesis cycle they need to grow.
Our agronomist, Jose A. Soler has vast experience in both building and managing hydroponic farms from the ground up. Mr. Soler has been an integral part of the development and installation of the largest hydroponic facility in Puerto Rico. He is now the project manager of each phase of building the facility, and will work with the maintenance crew to ensure optimum operations. Mr. Soler will also act as head grower of the facility to ensure the best quality product.
ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFITS OF HYDROPONICS
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● Hydroponics use up to 50% less land to grow the same amount of crops: This leaves more land for other uses. This process also saves more trees, which would otherwise be cleared for agricultural purposes.
● Less water usage: This method uses less than 10% the amount that would be required for growing in soil.
● 60% less fertilizer is required: The hydroponic growing solution circulates through the plant’s roots, the plant absorbs what it needs, and you don’t lose anything due to settling or crystallizing in the soil.
● Reduced imported goods consumption: With hydroponics, we can grow our own foods locally, eliminating the use of preservatives to keep food fresher. Our lettuce will be fresher for a longer period of time- without going through the importation process.
● Less pesticide use: Because we’re eliminating soil, which holds bacteria and many common insects, there’s no need for toxic pesticides to protect your plants.