MODERN HORTICULTURE

There is no doubt members of this generation are more inclined to be conscious consumers. People are increasingly finding ways to act responsibly and choose carefully when purchasing products. Whether it is food, clothing or health needs, consumers are exploring more options to shop ethically. There are many reasons to become a conscious consumer; some may do it to ensure they are giving money to companies that align with their personal values, while others do it to improve the quality of their purchases. Nevertheless, the revolt against mass production and consumption is of rising importance, specifically in the world of produce.

Hydroponics is a new and popular form of garden cultivation, otherwise known as horticulture. In addition to solving many field-farming concerns, hydroponics also exceeds efficiency goals in agriculture. It is unique in its ability to be completely done indoors without soil. Even though the process relies on water, Pure Greens Arizona, LLC states that hydroponic systems use 90% less water than traditional farming because the system is constantly being controlled and recirculated. And despite growing indoors, hydroponics have a 30-50% faster growth rate than produce traditionally grown in soil because the plants don’t need to spread their roots to search for nutrients. Instead, the water and nutrients are delivered directly to them. A lack of surrounding weeds is another reason why plants in a hydroponic system exceed traditional growth rates. Since a hydroponic setup requires little space, there is no room for other disruptive plantlife to grow. In essence, one can expect continuous growth and development among their plants when building a hydroponic system at home.

There are a variety of hydroponic systems used around the world today. Though some are more sophisticated than others, they all have the same needs. First, every system requires a reliable irrigation system that can easily be refilled and reached by plants. The plants also need an artificial light that mimics the energy needed for photosynthesis to occur, and there should be a stable surface for each crop to grow individually. Lastly, one can’t grow plants without the seeds of the desired produce. Common choices include strawberries, lettuce, cucumbers and peppers. By controlling the procedure, there isn’t much room to mess up. Instead, it provides an opportunity to be a more self-reliant consumer. With the efficiency that comes from growing hydroponics, it will soon revolutionize the farming process

In order to continually have Earth as a resource, it must be taken care of. For those who are not ready to partake in hydroponics or other types of horticulture at home, there is still an effective alternative, starting with the concept of being a “loyal local.” Simply buying your products from local producers and contributors can make a substantial difference on one’s environmental footprint. Buying and consuming locally grown produce is better for the environment for various reasons. Buying locally minimizes the miles food travels, reducing the carbon footprint while also keeping the food fresh. It also means that consumers are helping prevent big developers from taking over land, transforming it and potentially harming wildlife in the area. One also supports the local workforce when buying locally.

Transitioning to conscious consumption does not have to be as complicated as it sounds. Shopping locally or creating a home-horticulture system are just two simple ways to begin. Regardless of one’s course of action, taking small steps to be a more conscious consumer actively contribute to the restoration of life and wellness on Earth.

WORDS: MAXINE OSORIO PHOTO: ALEC GERSTENBERGER