How urban micro farming works in limited spaces is a compelling question, especially given the increasing demand for sustainable food sources in densely populated areas. This exploration delves into the practical methods and innovative techniques that enable urban dwellers to cultivate their own food, even within the confines of a small apartment or balcony. We’ll examine various approaches, from hydroponics and aquaponics to vertical farming, and discuss the challenges and rewards of this burgeoning movement.
The following sections will detail the specific techniques, suitable plant choices, and technological advancements that make urban micro-farming a viable and increasingly popular option for environmentally conscious individuals and communities seeking greater food security and a deeper connection with their food sources. We will also explore the economic, social, and environmental benefits this practice offers.
Defining Urban Micro Farming in Limited Spaces
Urban micro farming represents a significant shift in agricultural practices, adapting food production to the constraints of densely populated urban areas. It’s a response to the growing demand for locally sourced, fresh produce and a desire for greater food security within cities. This approach emphasizes small-scale farming techniques optimized for limited spaces, contrasting sharply with traditional, large-scale agricultural methods.
Urban micro farming differs considerably from traditional farming in several key aspects. Traditional farming typically involves extensive land use, reliance on mechanized equipment, and often employs monoculture practices (growing a single crop over a large area). In contrast, urban micro farming prioritizes efficient land use through techniques like vertical farming and hydroponics, minimizes reliance on machinery, and often incorporates diverse crops in a small area to promote biodiversity and resilience. The scale is dramatically different, with urban micro farms often operating in spaces as small as balconies or rooftops, while traditional farms span acres or even hundreds of acres.
Urban Micro Farming: A Concise Definition, How urban micro farming works in limited spaces
Urban micro farming is the practice of cultivating food crops on a small scale within urban environments, utilizing limited spaces such as rooftops, balconies, backyards, or even indoor spaces. This approach prioritizes efficiency, sustainability, and localized food production. The scale is typically small, ranging from individual household gardens to small community plots, contrasting with the expansive acreage characteristic of conventional agriculture.
Comparison of Urban Micro Farming with Other Urban Farming Types
The following table compares urban micro farming with other prevalent urban farming methods, highlighting their differences in scale, technology, and production methods.
| Farming Type | Scale | Technology | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Urban Micro Farming | Very small; individual households to small community plots | Simple, often manual; may incorporate basic hydroponics or aquaponics | Rooftops, balconies, window boxes, small backyards, indoor spaces |
| Rooftop Farming | Small to medium; can range from individual rooftop gardens to larger commercial operations | Can range from simple raised beds to sophisticated hydroponic systems | Rooftops of buildings |
| Vertical Farming | Small to large; can range from small indoor setups to large-scale warehouse farms | Highly technological; often involves hydroponics, aeroponics, and controlled environment agriculture (CEA) | Indoor facilities, often stacked vertically |
Methods and Techniques for Urban Micro Farming
Urban micro-farming in limited spaces necessitates innovative methods to maximize yield and efficiency. Several techniques have emerged to address the challenges of space constraints, allowing individuals to cultivate food even in the smallest of apartments or balconies. These methods focus on optimizing resource utilization and vertical space, leading to higher yields per square foot compared to traditional agriculture.
Hydroponics
Hydroponics is a soil-less method of growing plants where the roots are suspended in a nutrient-rich water solution. This eliminates the need for soil, significantly reducing the space required for growing. The system can be adapted to various sizes and shapes, making it ideal for urban environments.
- Advantages: Higher yields in smaller spaces, reduced water consumption compared to traditional farming, faster growth rates due to optimized nutrient delivery, and less susceptibility to soil-borne diseases.
- Disadvantages: Requires careful monitoring of nutrient levels and pH balance, initial setup costs can be higher than traditional gardening, and potential for system failures if not maintained properly.
Aquaponics
Aquaponics combines hydroponics with aquaculture, integrating fish farming with plant cultivation. Fish waste provides nutrients for the plants, while the plants filter the water for the fish, creating a self-sustaining ecosystem. This method is particularly space-efficient as it utilizes the same space for both fish and plant production.
- Advantages: Sustainable and eco-friendly, reduced water usage, minimal need for fertilizers, and produces both fish and plants.
- Disadvantages: Requires a more complex setup and maintenance compared to hydroponics, potential for disease outbreaks in both fish and plants, and a higher learning curve.
Vertical Farming
Vertical farming utilizes stacked layers of plants to maximize vertical space. This approach is particularly well-suited for urban areas with limited land availability. Systems can range from simple shelving units to sophisticated, multi-tiered structures with environmental controls.
- Advantages: Significantly increases yield per square foot, reduces land usage, and allows for year-round production independent of weather conditions.
- Disadvantages: High initial investment costs for advanced systems, requires specialized equipment and knowledge, and energy consumption can be significant depending on the system’s design.
Setting Up a Small-Scale Hydroponic System
This guide Artikels the setup of a simple Deep Water Culture (DWC) hydroponic system:
- Gather materials: A container (food-grade bucket or tub), net pots (to hold plants), air pump and air stone, nutrient solution reservoir, grow medium (clay pebbles or hydroton), pH meter and nutrient solution.
- Prepare the container: Drill holes in the lid of the container to accommodate the net pots. Ensure the container is clean and free of contaminants.
- Fill the reservoir: Fill the container with the nutrient solution, ensuring the water level is sufficient to submerge the roots of the plants.
- Place the air stone: Connect the air pump to the air stone and place it in the reservoir to oxygenate the nutrient solution.
- Plant seedlings: Place the seedlings in the net pots, ensuring the roots are submerged in the nutrient solution.
- Monitor and adjust: Regularly monitor the pH and nutrient levels of the solution and adjust as needed.
Design of a Vertical Farming System for a Balcony
Imagine a vertical farming system built against a balcony railing. The structure consists of three vertically stacked 1m x 0.5m wooden frames, separated by 0.3m. Each frame supports five 0.2m x 0.2m grow trays made from recycled plastic. The trays are lined with a waterproof membrane to prevent leakage. Plants are grown in coconut coir, a sustainable and readily available growing medium. A simple drip irrigation system is implemented, using a timer to deliver nutrient solution to each tray. The entire structure is covered with a transparent polyethylene film to protect plants from harsh weather and insects. The system’s total height is approximately 1.9m, fitting comfortably within a standard balcony space. This design is scalable; more frames can be added to increase growing capacity as needed.
Suitable Plants for Urban Micro Farming
Choosing the right plants is crucial for successful urban micro-farming. The limited space and controlled environment necessitate selecting species that are compact, productive, and adaptable to various growing systems. This selection should consider factors like sunlight availability, water requirements, and nutrient needs, all of which vary depending on the chosen micro-farming technique (e.g., vertical gardening, hydroponics, aquaponics).
The following table categorizes suitable plants based on their growth habits, providing a starting point for planning your urban garden. Remember that specific varieties within each category may exhibit slightly different growth characteristics.
Urban micro-farming tackles the challenge of food production in densely populated areas by utilizing vertical space and innovative techniques. For instance, you can grow herbs in hanging planters or cultivate vegetables in stacked containers. To learn more about the various methods and possibilities, explore the comprehensive guide on Urban micro farming. This resourceful approach allows even small balconies or rooftops to become productive food sources, demonstrating the adaptability of urban agriculture.
Plant Selection by Growth Habit
| Growth Habit | Vegetables | Herbs | Fruits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vining | Cucumbers, Bush beans, Cherry tomatoes, Peppers | Basil, Mint, Strawberries | Strawberries, Cherry tomatoes |
| Bushy | Lettuce, Kale, Spinach, Radishes, Carrots (smaller varieties) | Rosemary, Thyme, Oregano | Dwarf citrus trees (in larger containers) |
| Compact | Radishes, Carrots (smaller varieties), Scallions, Bush beans, Leaf lettuce | Chives, Parsley | Dwarf fruit trees (in very large containers) |
Growth Requirements Comparison
The success of any plant depends on its light, water, and nutrient requirements. These vary depending on the plant and the micro-farming technique used. For example, hydroponic systems offer precise control over nutrient delivery, while vertical gardens may require more attention to water retention.
Efficient urban micro farming in limited spaces often utilizes vertical gardening, hydroponics, or aquaponics. These techniques maximize yield by optimizing space usage. Understanding the core principles of Urban micro farming is crucial for success. Ultimately, the goal is to produce fresh food sustainably, even within the constraints of urban environments, adapting methods to suit available resources.
Let’s compare the needs of three common plants across different systems:
| Plant | Light (hours/day) | Water (frequency) | Nutrients (type) | Hydroponics | Vertical Garden | Container Gardening |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lettuce | 6-8 | Daily | Nitrogen-rich | Easy, requires precise nutrient solution | Moderate, requires good drainage | Easy, well-draining soil essential |
| Basil | 6-8 | Every other day | Balanced | Moderate, requires well-oxygenated solution | Easy, well-draining soil mix | Easy, well-draining soil essential |
| Cherry Tomatoes | 8-10 | Daily or as needed | Potassium-rich | Moderate, requires support system | Moderate, requires strong support | Easy, well-draining soil, staking recommended |
Examples of Successful Urban Micro Farming Projects
Many successful urban micro-farming projects demonstrate the viability of growing a variety of produce in limited spaces. For instance, rooftop gardens in New York City have successfully grown a wide range of leafy greens and herbs using vertical hydroponic systems, achieving high yields in relatively small areas. Similarly, community gardens in London have utilized raised beds and vertical trellises to cultivate tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers, proving the adaptability of different farming techniques to various plant choices. These projects often showcase the importance of careful planning and the selection of plants suitable for the specific conditions.
Urban micro-farming cleverly utilizes limited spaces through vertical gardening, hydroponics, and container systems. To understand the scope of this innovative approach, it’s helpful to first define what constitutes urban micro-farming; a concise explanation can be found in this helpful resource: Urban Micro Farming Definition. With a clear definition in mind, we can better appreciate how these techniques maximize yield and resource efficiency within the constraints of urban environments.
Addressing Challenges in Urban Micro Farming
Urban micro-farming, while offering numerous benefits, presents unique challenges due to the confined spaces involved. Successful urban farming requires careful planning and proactive management to overcome these hurdles and ensure a healthy and productive yield. This section will address some common obstacles and offer practical solutions.
Pest and Disease Management
Pests and diseases can quickly decimate a small urban farm. The close proximity of plants in limited spaces increases the risk of rapid infestation or spread. Effective prevention and control are crucial for maintaining a healthy crop.
- Regular Inspection: Daily or at least twice-weekly checks for signs of pests (insects, mites, slugs) and diseases (fungal growth, wilting, discoloration). Early detection is key to effective management.
- Natural Pest Control: Employing beneficial insects like ladybugs or lacewings to control aphids and other pests. Introducing nematodes to combat soil-borne pests. Using companion planting, where certain plants repel pests from others.
- Disease Prevention: Ensuring proper sanitation, including sterilizing tools and containers between uses. Avoiding overwatering, which promotes fungal growth. Choosing disease-resistant plant varieties.
- Organic Pesticides: As a last resort, using organic pesticides such as neem oil or insecticidal soap, following label instructions carefully. Always prioritize preventative measures.
Environmental Factor Control
The urban environment presents specific challenges regarding temperature, light, and humidity, all of which significantly impact plant growth in limited spaces.
- Lighting: Supplemental lighting, such as LED grow lights, is often necessary, particularly during winter months or in spaces with limited natural light. Careful consideration of light intensity, duration, and spectrum is essential for optimal plant growth.
- Temperature Regulation: Maintaining a consistent temperature range suitable for the chosen plants is crucial. This may involve using fans for ventilation or heaters/coolers to regulate temperature extremes. Insulation can also help maintain a stable environment.
- Humidity Control: High humidity can lead to fungal diseases, while low humidity can cause stress. Balancing humidity levels may require using humidifiers or dehumidifiers, or strategic ventilation.
Efficient Water Resource Management
Water conservation is paramount in urban micro-farming, given the limited space and potential for water waste.
- Drip Irrigation: This method delivers water directly to the roots, minimizing evaporation and runoff, significantly improving water-use efficiency compared to overhead watering.
- Water Harvesting: Collecting rainwater in barrels or containers for later use in irrigation. This reduces reliance on municipal water supplies and conserves resources.
- Soil Moisture Monitoring: Regularly checking soil moisture levels using a moisture meter to avoid overwatering or underwatering. This ensures that plants receive the appropriate amount of water, preventing waste.
- Mulching: Applying a layer of mulch around plants helps retain soil moisture, reducing the frequency of watering and minimizing evaporation.
Benefits and Impacts of Urban Micro Farming: How Urban Micro Farming Works In Limited Spaces
Urban micro farming, despite its small scale, offers a multitude of benefits that ripple across environmental, economic, and social spheres. Its impact extends beyond simply providing food; it contributes to a more sustainable and equitable urban landscape.
Environmental Benefits of Urban Micro Farming
Urban micro farms contribute significantly to a healthier environment. By growing food locally, they drastically reduce the carbon footprint associated with long-distance transportation of produce. The emissions from trucks and ships carrying food from farms hundreds or thousands of miles away are substantial. Micro farms, by contrast, minimize these emissions, as food travels only a short distance from farm to table. Furthermore, urban micro farms can improve air quality. Plants naturally absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, acting as mini-air purifiers within the urban environment. This effect, while small on an individual farm basis, becomes significant when scaled across numerous micro farms within a city. The increased green space also contributes to a reduction in the urban heat island effect, making cities cooler and more comfortable.
Economic Advantages of Urban Micro Farming
The economic benefits of urban micro farming are multifaceted. For consumers, access to locally grown food often translates to lower food costs, as the elimination of transportation and intermediary markups reduces the final price. This is particularly beneficial for low-income communities who may struggle to afford fresh produce from traditional supermarkets. Furthermore, urban micro farming creates opportunities for income generation. Individuals can sell their surplus produce at farmers’ markets, community supported agriculture (CSA) programs, or directly to consumers, providing a supplemental or even primary income source. The creation of these small businesses also contributes to local economic growth and job creation.
Social Impacts of Urban Micro Farming
Beyond the environmental and economic benefits, urban micro farming fosters positive social change. Micro farms often become community hubs, bringing people together through shared activities like planting, harvesting, and food preparation. This fosters a sense of community ownership and strengthens social bonds. Furthermore, urban micro farming improves access to fresh, healthy food, particularly in food deserts – areas with limited access to supermarkets and fresh produce. This increased access contributes to better nutrition and overall health, particularly among vulnerable populations. The educational aspects of urban micro farming also contribute to a greater understanding of food systems and sustainable practices.
Summary of Benefits
| Benefit Category | Specific Benefit | Example | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental | Reduced Carbon Footprint | Less transportation emissions compared to conventional farming | Lower greenhouse gas emissions, mitigating climate change |
| Environmental | Improved Air Quality | Plants absorbing CO2 and releasing O2 | Cleaner air, healthier environment |
| Economic | Reduced Food Costs | Direct sales eliminating intermediaries | Increased affordability of fresh produce |
| Economic | Income Generation | Selling produce at farmers’ markets | Job creation, economic growth |
| Social | Community Building | Shared activities around farming | Stronger social bonds, increased community cohesion |
| Social | Improved Food Access | Providing fresh produce in food deserts | Better nutrition, improved public health |
Technology and Innovation in Urban Micro Farming
Technological advancements are revolutionizing urban micro-farming, boosting efficiency and productivity within limited spaces. These innovations range from sophisticated irrigation systems to data-driven approaches that optimize resource use and maximize yields. The integration of technology is no longer a luxury but a necessity for successful and sustainable urban farming initiatives.
Smart irrigation systems, LED grow lights, and automated environmental controls are key technologies enhancing urban micro-farming efficiency. These tools not only increase yields but also contribute to water conservation and energy efficiency, crucial factors in sustainable urban agriculture. Furthermore, data-driven approaches offer valuable insights into plant health and growth patterns, allowing for precise adjustments in resource allocation and optimizing crop production.
Smart Irrigation Systems and LED Grow Lights
Smart irrigation systems utilize sensors to monitor soil moisture levels, automatically adjusting watering schedules to prevent overwatering or underwatering. This precise control conserves water, reduces waste, and promotes healthier plant growth. Similarly, LED grow lights offer energy-efficient alternatives to traditional lighting, providing customized light spectrums optimized for different plant species. The ability to fine-tune light intensity and duration further enhances plant growth and yield. For example, a system using soil moisture sensors and a timer-controlled water pump can significantly reduce water consumption compared to manual watering. The use of LED grow lights, with their adjustable spectrum and intensity, can increase yields by up to 30% compared to traditional fluorescent lighting, depending on the plant species and the setup.
Automation and Data-Driven Approaches in Optimizing Crop Production
Automation plays a crucial role in optimizing crop production in limited spaces. Automated systems can manage environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and CO2 levels, creating ideal growing conditions. Data-driven approaches, often incorporating sensors and software, provide real-time insights into plant health, allowing for early detection of diseases or nutrient deficiencies. This proactive approach minimizes losses and improves overall yields. For instance, a system that monitors temperature and humidity levels and automatically adjusts ventilation can prevent the spread of diseases caused by excessive moisture. Software that analyzes data from sensors can provide recommendations on nutrient adjustments based on the plant’s growth stage and environmental conditions.
Innovative Urban Micro Farming Designs and Technologies
Vertical farming, hydroponics, and aeroponics are examples of innovative urban micro-farming designs that maximize space utilization. Vertical farming utilizes stacked layers to increase growing area, while hydroponics and aeroponics cultivate plants without soil, using nutrient-rich water solutions. These methods significantly increase yields per square foot compared to traditional soil-based farming. Further innovations include modular systems that can be easily adapted to various spaces and automated harvesting systems that minimize labor costs. A vertical farm can produce significantly more food per square foot than a traditional farm due to the efficient use of vertical space. Hydroponic systems allow for precise control over nutrient delivery, leading to increased yields and reduced water usage.
Readily Available Technologies for Home Use
Several technologies are readily available for home use, offering cost-effective solutions for urban micro-farming. Simple hydroponic systems, LED grow lights, and automated watering systems can be purchased at reasonable prices. These technologies are user-friendly and require minimal technical expertise. For example, a basic hydroponic kit can be purchased for under $100, while LED grow lights are available at various price points depending on power and features. These readily available technologies allow individuals to engage in urban micro-farming without significant financial investment.
Urban Micro Farming and Community Engagement
Urban micro farming initiatives thrive when they actively engage the surrounding community, transforming them from isolated projects into vibrant hubs of social interaction and shared responsibility. By fostering a sense of ownership and participation, these initiatives not only increase food production but also strengthen community bonds and address crucial social issues.
Community involvement is paramount to the success and sustainability of urban micro farming. Successful projects are built upon collaboration, shared knowledge, and a collective commitment to improving local food systems and social well-being. This section explores how community engagement strengthens urban micro farming and its positive impact on urban communities.
Methods for Fostering Community Involvement
Effective community engagement requires a multi-faceted approach. Workshops and educational programs provide valuable skills and knowledge, empowering community members to participate actively. Community gardens offer shared spaces for cultivation and collaboration, fostering a sense of collective ownership and shared responsibility. Other initiatives include volunteer programs, community feasts using harvested produce, and collaborative planning sessions to ensure projects align with community needs and priorities. These methods help to build trust, encourage participation, and create a sense of shared purpose.
Urban Micro Farming’s Contribution to Social Cohesion and Empowerment
Urban micro farming significantly contributes to social cohesion by creating opportunities for interaction and collaboration among diverse community members. Shared gardening spaces become meeting places, fostering relationships and breaking down social barriers. The collective effort of cultivating food builds a sense of shared accomplishment and strengthens community bonds. Furthermore, it empowers individuals and groups by providing them with skills, knowledge, and resources to improve their food security and contribute to their local environment. This sense of empowerment fosters self-reliance and enhances community resilience.
Addressing Food Insecurity through Urban Micro Farming
Food insecurity, particularly prevalent in urban areas, can be significantly alleviated through urban micro farming initiatives. By providing access to fresh, nutritious produce, these projects contribute directly to improving dietary intake and reducing reliance on expensive and often less healthy processed foods. Community gardens, particularly those connected to food banks or community kitchens, can provide a direct and reliable source of food for vulnerable populations. Furthermore, the skills learned through urban micro farming can empower individuals and families to grow their food, increasing their food security in the long term.
Examples of Successful Community-Based Urban Micro Farming Projects
Several successful projects demonstrate the transformative potential of community-based urban micro farming.
- The Brooklyn Grange Rooftop Farm (New York City): This large-scale rooftop farm not only produces a significant amount of food but also hosts educational workshops, community events, and provides employment opportunities. Its success demonstrates the potential of urban agriculture to create economic and social benefits alongside food production.
- Pomonok Houses Community Garden (Queens, New York): This resident-led initiative transformed a neglected area into a vibrant community garden, fostering social interaction and providing fresh produce to residents of a public housing complex. It showcases how even small-scale projects can have a profound impact on community well-being.
- Growing Power (Milwaukee, Wisconsin): This organization combines urban farming with educational programs and community outreach, addressing food insecurity and promoting sustainable agriculture. Their model demonstrates the potential for integrating urban farming with broader community development goals.
These examples illustrate how community engagement is not merely an add-on but a crucial element for the success and sustainability of urban micro farming initiatives. The combined effect of increased food production, enhanced social cohesion, and community empowerment makes urban micro farming a powerful tool for building stronger, more resilient urban communities.
Future Trends in Urban Micro Farming
Urban micro-farming is poised for significant growth and evolution, driven by increasing urbanization, growing awareness of food security, and technological advancements. The future of this sector will be shaped by innovations in farming techniques, a stronger emphasis on sustainability, and increased community involvement. We can expect to see more sophisticated systems and a greater integration of technology to maximize efficiency and yield within limited spaces.
The integration of advanced technologies is rapidly transforming urban micro-farming. Vertical farming, utilizing stacked layers to maximize space utilization, is becoming increasingly sophisticated. Hydroponics and aeroponics, soilless cultivation methods, are gaining popularity due to their efficiency in water and resource usage. These techniques allow for year-round production, regardless of climate or season, making them ideal for urban environments. Furthermore, advancements in LED lighting, sensors, and automated systems are improving crop yields and reducing labor costs.
Advancements in Vertical Farming and Hydroponics
Vertical farming systems are evolving beyond simple stacked trays. We’re seeing the development of modular, customizable systems that can be adapted to various spaces and scales. Hydroponic techniques are being refined to optimize nutrient delivery and root zone management, leading to faster growth and higher yields. For example, companies like AeroFarms are pioneering advanced aeroponic systems that use minimal water and nutrients, while maximizing crop production in vertically stacked environments. These systems often incorporate data analytics and AI to monitor plant health and optimize growing conditions in real-time, leading to increased efficiency and reduced waste.
Urban Micro Farming’s Contribution to Sustainable Urban Development
Urban micro-farming offers a powerful solution to several challenges inherent in urban environments. By producing food locally, it reduces transportation costs and emissions associated with long-distance food transport, thus minimizing the carbon footprint. Furthermore, it contributes to urban biodiversity and green spaces, improving air quality and creating aesthetically pleasing environments. Micro-farms can also help to revitalize underutilized urban spaces, transforming derelict areas into productive and vibrant communities. The initiative by the city of Singapore to integrate vertical farms into public housing is a prime example of integrating urban farming into sustainable urban development.
Meeting the Growing Demand for Local, Sustainable Food
The increasing demand for locally sourced, sustainable food is driving the growth of urban micro-farming. Consumers are increasingly concerned about food miles, food safety, and the environmental impact of their food choices. Urban micro-farms can directly address these concerns by providing fresh, locally grown produce with a demonstrably lower environmental impact. Community-supported agriculture (CSA) models are becoming increasingly popular, connecting urban farmers directly with consumers, fostering transparency and building stronger community bonds. This direct-to-consumer approach allows for greater control over the entire supply chain, reducing waste and ensuring the highest quality produce.
A Futuristic Urban Micro Farming System
Imagine a high-rise building, its exterior clad in a living wall of lush greenery. Inside, a sophisticated vertical farm operates seamlessly. Automated robotic systems tend to the plants, precisely delivering nutrients and water via hydroponic systems. LED lighting systems, customized to each plant’s needs, optimize photosynthesis. Sensors monitor environmental conditions, adjusting parameters in real-time to ensure optimal growth. Data analytics provide insights into plant health and resource utilization, optimizing efficiency and yield. The building’s design incorporates rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling systems, minimizing water consumption. The harvested produce is transported via automated systems to a nearby distribution center or directly to consumers via a dedicated on-site market, all while generating clean energy through integrated solar panels. This system represents a highly efficient, sustainable, and technologically advanced approach to urban food production, demonstrating the potential for urban micro-farming to transform how we grow and consume food in cities.
