More than likely, you’ve tasted the leafy greens and herbs of Uriah’s Urban Farms around town.
The Tampa company, a pioneer in the U.S. indoor vertical farming industry, was founded in 2012 by farmer Dave Smiles as a solution to inferior food quality and availability. It’s since partnered with an international food service provider and dozens of hospitality brands and local restaurants — including Edison: Food + Drink Lab and Fly Bar & Restaurant — to get its eco-conscious, nutrient-dense plants to people’s plates using innovative cultivation techniques.
Now that we’ve switched seasons, Smiles has shared five helpful indoor gardening tips for fall — aimed at the green-thumbed growers in us all. You’ll need an indoor growing system, of course, which can be organic or hydroponic. But, as the farmer — who recommends stopping by a local gardening center like Simply Hydroponics and Organics to purchase a system — puts it: “Happy growing.”
1. Clean your indoor growing system.
Here in Florida, fall is one of our favorite seasons of the year. Before firing up your lights and turning on your pumps, make sure to sanitize and clean your systems really well. Flushing your pumps as well as soaking your pots and trays in a 10 percent bleach solution will make sure no unwanted pathogens are hanging around.
2. Don’t let any unwanted guests in.
Pests love a fresh water source. Pair that with the warmth of a grow light and it can seem like a day at the beach for any bug. Make it hard for them by keeping reservoirs covered and air temperatures cooler and they’ll find an easier source.
Pay attention to air circulation. There’s nothing like a periodic crisp breeze of some fresh air to reinvigorate the soul. Same goes for plants. Try to change the air in your room at least once an hour with fans or an open window.
4. Drink plenty of water.
As the air dries out, plants will transpire more. Make sure you pay attention to your watering frequency. Your plants will need more water, but be careful you don’t over fertilize.
5. Enjoy the fruits of your labor.
You’re almost there. You have worked hard for months and can see the harvest drawing near. Pay extra attention now, as this is when it’s the most attractive for pests and pathogens to attack as well.
This article appears in Oct 5-12, 2017.