The cost of living and food in general is set to rise experientially over the next few years as the population is booming and natural resource to grow food are at capacity, not to mention the time it takes, the channels it goes through and the waste it creates.
We all know the cost of living in general is rising and we now have far more expenses than ever before. One of the biggest ongoing expenses is food. So how do we reduce this cost in our lives and grow food in more of an automated process rather than it being a big hefty task to add to the weekend list of things to do?
Here are some great ideas to get you started on your growing journey, and even save a dollar or two on food costs.
Grow your own food using an Aquaponics system:
Aquaponics is a combination of two methods - aquaculture, which is the process of fish keeping, and hydroponics which is essentially growing plants without soil. Aquaponics uses these two methods in a symbiotic ecosystem, in which plants are fed the waste from the fish. In return, the plants clean the water that circulates back to the fish. Microbes play an important role in the nutrition of the plants, as these beneficial bacteria gather in the spaces between the roots of the plant and convert the fish waste into substances the plants can use to grow food. Pretty cool stuff! Most Aquaponic units are self watering and easy to maintain.
Some excellent produce to grow in this includes micro greens, herbs or veggies such as salad greens, peppers, strawberries, tomatoes or cherry tomatoes, kale, spinach and more.
1. AquaSprouts - Starting at $299 for the basic kit this amazing product is small, and suitable for all homes, schools and offices. Keep the fish and grow plants and herbs on the grow bed.
2. Aquaponics Outdoor Kit - For larger areas, this is a great outdoor kit, it includes a tank for the fish and larger grow beds that can be utilised to grow lots of food. You can add more garden beds are you go!
Grow your own food using a Hydroponic system or Vertical garden:
Hydroponics is simply described as growing plants without soil. Hydroponics allows you to control more of the variables including pH levels, lighting and nutrients for optimal plant growth and produce yields all year round. Water is the main method of delivering the nutrients to the plant’s roots, combined with growing media to help support the plant. Hydroponically grown plants dip their roots directly into nutrient-rich solutions, so plants get more of what they need much faster and easier. Hydroponic farming can be used in locations where soil conditions are too poor to support farming, or where space is limited. It can be done anytime and anywhere. Most hydroponic and vertical gardens are self watering and easy to set up and use. You can set up a timer and watch you seedlings come to life.
Another great way to grow food using this method of hydroponics is through Vertical Farming. The only difference being that you're growing up in stacked layers. This is great for those homes or places where space is limited. Some great examples of this is a tower style garden which used hydroponics in a vertical format.
1. Vertical Self Watering Grow Tower 1.5M - Starting at $429.00 it's a great intro to vertical farming. Easy to use and set up is comes with everything you need to kick start your journey.
2. Mini Farm - More of a smaller bench top style unit to grow all you greens at home! At $329 it's a great way to get started without a lot of commitment.
3. Urban Vertical Hydroponic - A bigger unit with tray like design, it's great for larger scale produce and is an investment for the long term. Easy to set up and use.
See more at www.urbangreenfarms.com.au
Grow your own bench top micro greens and herbs:
There are so many wonderful micro greens and herbs that can be grown in the kitchen or on a bench top unit if the space is small and you love to add a little fresh zest to your cooking. Think along the lines of basil, oregano, mint, coriander and more.
1. UrbiPod - Easy to assemble, operate and clean. Simply set up the UrbiPod and be amazed at how easy and effortless it is to grow herbs, salad greens, and micro greens in it.
2. Windowsill Gardens Herbs & Microgreens - at only $49 it's a great little windowsill herb planter that is cute and easy to use.
See more at www.urbangreenfarms.com.au
Start a garden or patio patch with planters:
For those with a smaller dwelling or don't want to get into a full blown veggie patch just yet, a simple and easy way is to use a planter. Planters are small and some types are even self watering! Another great way to grow greens and get started on your growing journey.
Self Watering Planters - Easy to use, set up and get growing. You can hang them on walls, or railings and they look great. Starting at only $199.
Urban Cafe Planter - Ideal for commercial environments like cafes, restaurants and stores to provide the ultimate flexibility. It even doubles as a great room divider. It can also be used at home, the backyard, patios and more.
Whatever you budget or needs, it's easy to grow food and get started at any level. Visit www.urbangreenfarms.com.au and check out the awesome products, and more information on each.