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In temperate climates, aquaponic producers must use artificial lighting; however, purchasing light-emitting diode (LED) grow lights can be costprohibitive. Two aquaponic trials evaluated low-cost LED lighting for the growth of bibb lettuce (Lactuca sativa var. capitata). In trial 1, seven low-cost LED lights were screened and compared with a high-end LED grow light. The three bestperforming lights in terms of total plant biomass produced (grams) and total plant biomass per unit of electricity (grams per square meter per kilowatt-hour) were more intensively evaluated in trial 2. These lights included Spider Farmer SF-2000 [SPI ($300)], Fluence RAZRx [FLU ($364)], Designers Fountain 6-Light 5000 K LED High Bay Light [DES ($100)], and the control NeoSol DS [NEO ($1400)]. After 17 days, lettuce grown under NEO achieved higher (P # 0.05) total biomass (939 g) than DES (812 g). There were no differences (P > 0.05) in the average individual plant weights in any treatment. Plant production efficiency (grams per square meter per kilowatt-hour) was higher in DES than NEO (P # 0.05) but was not different from SPI and FLU (P > 0.05). Results indicate that low-cost LEDs are a viable option for producers looking to reduce investment costs while maintaining adequate plant growth. To further describe potential cost savings for producers, a partial budget analysis evaluated the net change in profits and benefit/cost ratio (BCR) of the experimental lights. All showed improved economic results compared with the control (NEO). These studies indicate that low-cost LED lights can support similar plant growth, at higher energy efficiencies, with better economic viability than more expensive grow lights. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on Rowan Delport and Juan Rabe's journey into hydroponic farming after switching from aquaculture studies, highlighting their practical approach to overcoming high land costs by using under-cover hydroponic methods. Topics include their initial market research, hands-on experience gained from working on a farm in Israel, and their strategy of starting small with minimal infrastructure to keep costs low, despite not drawing salaries for the first two years of their venture.

Great Lakes Growers is a Midwest hydroponic grower of fresh lettuces and herbs. They use a state-of-the-art greenhouse and hydroponic system to grow their plants using water instead of soil, ensuring better consistency and quality. The company emphasizes freshness by harvesting and shipping their products within 24 hours. They also prioritize sustainability by recycling water, avoiding the use of chemicals or pesticides, and focusing on energy efficiency. Great Lakes Growers has experienced significant growth since its founding in 2012 and plans to continue expanding in the future. [Extracted from the article]

The document titled "AUSBIOSTOCK" is an index of biotechnology companies listed on the ASX. It provides information on the companies' activities, market capitalization, stock prices, and other financial data. The companies listed are involved in various areas of biotechnology, including drug development, medical device manufacturing, healthcare software development, and the cultivation and distribution of medicinal cannabis products. This index is a valuable resource for library patrons conducting research on biotechnology companies in Australia. It is important to note that the document does not provide investment advice or make any claims about the investment opportunities in these companies. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses the importance of growing media in hydroponic systems and how it can influence plant health. The physical and chemical properties of the media, such as water-holding capacity and nutrient retention, need to be considered when choosing the right media for crops. The article also emphasizes the importance of managing moisture balance and pH levels in hydroponic systems. Additionally, it highlights the sustainability and efficiency benefits of hydroponics compared to traditional cultivation methods. The article concludes with advice for growers, including the need for market research, investment planning, and selecting trusted companies in the industry. [Extracted from the article]

Insurance schemes are being implemented in various states in India to protect livestock rearers against milk production losses caused by heat stress. The schemes are in response to the intense heat stress experienced in the country, which has harmful consequences for animal health and productivity. These insurance schemes are still in their early stages and are limited to specific districts. However, they provide a safety net for farmers who face substantial financial losses due to declining milk production. While insurance programs are important, India also needs to explore other solutions to make cattle resilient to external heat, such as improving infrastructure and practices and introducing hydroponics to improve feed quality and animal health. [Extracted from the article]

Passing drinking water through mini-turbines in water pipes can generate renewable energy. This "in-conduit" hydropower is an underutilized resource that could serve as a reliable backup for wind and solar power. Currently, there are about 530 megawatts of generation capacity in the US from this type of hydropower, but if implemented at all potential sites, it could provide an additional 1.41 gigawatts of capacity without requiring new infrastructure. Companies like InPipe Energy have already installed these systems, with one in California generating 130,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity per year. This technology has the potential to reduce carbon emissions and contribute to the goal of carbon neutrality. [Extracted from the article]

Chlorine is a disinfectant commonly used to treat water. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) has set a standard limit of up to 4 mg·L−1 chlorine for drinking water. The objective of this project was to identify chlorine phytotoxicity thresholds on ‘Rex’ lettuce (Lactuca sativa) when the water source contained chlorine levels within the USEPA standard limits. The nutrient solution to grow lettuce was prepared with reverse osmosis–treated water treated with 0, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, and 4 mg·L−1 chlorine and then fertilizers were added. Lettuce plants were grown in a deep-water culture hydroponic system. Visual toxicity symptoms on leaves, relative leaf greenness, and fresh and dry biomass were measured. Our results indicate that irrigation water sources with ≥1 mg·L−1 chlorine used to prepare nutrient solutions can cause phytotoxicity in lettuce plants in just 3 days. Compared with the untreated control, lettuce shoot biomass was lower by 30%, 55%, 66%, 83%, and 92% at 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, and 4 mg·L−1 of chlorine, respectively. Water sources with ≥ 1 mg·L−1 chlorine can cause significant marketable yield reduction in lettuce grown in deep-water culture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydroponic is a technique of growing plants in a soilless medium by using a sponge, rock wool, hydroton, coconut coir, and perlite as an alternative for crop production systems. Recently, biochar has been reported to be a potential substrate for hydroponic cultivation techniques due to its physicochemical properties which can help increase vegetable production. A greenhouse study was conducted to investigate the effect of biochar as hydroponic substrate on the growth, colour and nutritional content of red lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.). This study utilized the nutrient film technique (NFT) hydroponic system and was conducted using a randomized complete block design with five treatments, including T1 (hydroton only), T2 (perlite only), T3 (palm kernel biochar), T4 (palm kernel biochar + hydroton), and T5 (palm kernel biochar + perlite). Data analysis revealed the treatment, which consists of both palm kernel biochar and hydroton (T4) resulted in a significant increase in plant growth and yielded the highest plant height (19.86 cm), leaf width (14.16 cm), plant fresh weight (68.19 g), and dry weight (8.29 g). The leaves nutrient content (N, P, K, Mg, Ca) of red lettuce grown in palm kernel biochar and hydroton (T4) substrates suggested the presence of optimal growth conditions for ensuring optimum yield with high quality. The application of palm kernel biochar and hydroton (T4) as substrate also showed a higher lightness value (L* = 66.67). Besides, the methanolic leaf extracts from the red lettuce grown in palm kernel biochar and hydroton (T4) showed the highest bioactive metabolite content. In addition, the application of palm kernel biochar (T3) as a hydroponic substrate decreased the algal density in the nutrient solution. In conclusion, the combination of palm kernel biochar and hydroton as a substrate was observed to be the best in enhancing the growth performance, colour, and nutritional content of red lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.), and it is therefore recommended to be used as the growth substrate in the NFT system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most bottled water is taken from underground sources, which are a limited resource. But a new type of canned water is pulling moisture from thin air at a solar-powered "water farm."SKY WTR uses "hydropanel" technology. Solar panels power fans that draw in air and push it through a material that absorbs moisture. The moisture is collected as clean, filtered water. Because the process is powered entirely by sunlight, it can take place in remote, dry locations. The company that makes SKY WTR hopes it could help address a global water shortage.A can of SKY WTR [Extracted from the article]

Jones Food Company Limited has filed a patent application for a farming system that enhances indoor growing and hydroponic farming. The system includes a support structure with a tray-receiving location and an irrigation system that efficiently supplies and drains fluid from the trays. By filling the trays from the bottom-up, water usage can be optimized and crop growth can be more precisely managed. The system also reduces plumbing by utilizing the same conduit for both delivery and drainage. The invention aims to increase yield, improve efficiency, and minimize resource consumption in indoor farming. Additionally, the patent application describes a grow tray with various features such as irrigation openings, channels for fluid flow, stacking protrusions, and locating features for stability. This design enables effective and controlled irrigation in a compact system. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at Ohio State University examined the effectiveness of chemical sanitizers in eliminating Salmonella Typhimurium from surfaces in hydroponic farming systems. The researchers tested various sanitizers on nutrient film technique (NFT) surfaces and found that quaternary ammonium compounds (QAC) were effective in eliminating the bacteria. However, chlorine-based sanitizers had similar results to water treatments. Additionally, all chemical sanitizers had an impact on the yield, color, and nutritional value of lettuce and basil. The findings of this study will contribute to the development of food safety guidelines and policies for the industry. [Extracted from the article]

Copyright of Albéitar is the property of Grupo Asis Biomedia, S.L. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

An interview with Sairam Reddy Palicherla, one of the founders of UrbanKisaan creating a sustainable and safe future using hydroponics is presented. Topics include talks about creating local micro farms, with a low carbon footprint and igniting agri-entrepreneurs to bring positive change for humanity and the planet.

Hydroponics is a promising method for cultivation of saffron (Crocus sativus). In this study, saffron corms were sprouted using a gradual decrease in air temperature, and they were cultivated hydroponically in either perlite or volcanic rock for 24 weeks. A nutrient solution was supplied using either an ebband-flow system or continuous immersion. First blooming was observed 29 days after transplantation. Among flowering traits, only the stigma length was significantly influenced by the type of hydroponic system. Saffron plants displayed better growth parameters, a higher photosynthetic rate and stomatal conductance (gS), as well as daughter corm (cormlet) production under the continuous immersion system, in comparison with the ebb-and-flow system. Small corms (22–25 mm diameter) did not bloom, and the emergence of flowers increased with corm size. Plant growth and photosynthetic parameters, as well as cormlet production, significantly increased with corm size. We obtained the highest stigma yield [number of flowers (1.9), stigma length (39.4 mm), stigma fresh (42.8 mg), and dry weight (5.3 mg)] and cormlet yield [number of cormlets (5.7), average corm diameter (25 mm), and fresh weight (6.4 g)] using mother corms sized $32 mm diameter grown hydroponically in the volcanic rock–based continuous immersion system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article offers information about hydroponics, a method of farming that involves growing plants without soil and with the use of artificial lights. It provides the advantages and disadvantages of this system, such as better control of nutrients, reduced water usage, and higher initial costs. It discusses different types of hydroponic systems, including liquid and aggregate systems.

The article discusses the South Africa's dairy industry produces more milk with fewer cows and farms. Sustainable water management is vital due to decreasing freshwater resources. Dairy farmers are committed to combating climate change, improving water quality, and implementing sustainable practices, according to a report by the conservation organization World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) and Trace & Save.

The article focuses on the agricultural reservoirs in Morocco, which are currently at 30 present capacity due to decreased rainfall, as stated by Moroccan Minister Mohamed Sadiki.

The article focuses on Ansie Esterhuizen sharing photos of her farm near Ficksburg, transformed into a winter wonderland with rare thick snow, last seen in the area over two decades ago.

A new report from the University of Tunis El Manar discusses research on sustainable food and agriculture. The study introduces smart tools and algorithms for controlling and monitoring Sustainable Agricultural Greenhouses (SHG). By implementing solar energy, Internet of Things (IoT) sensor-actuator networks, and artificial intelligence, the SHG has a low carbon footprint and minimal water usage, reducing costs and optimizing crop production. The research concludes that this cutting-edge greenhouse, which combines renewable energies, hydroponic techniques, smart technologies, and sustainable practices, creates an ideal microclimate for year-round cultivation while preserving energy and water resources. [Extracted from the article]

A new report from researchers at the University of Naples Federico II explores consumer attitudes towards different methods of fresh herb cultivation, including urban farming, hydroponics, and robotic cultivation. The study found that urban farming was the most preferred method, followed by hydroponics, while robotic cultivation was the least favored. The research also revealed that consumer levels of environmental concern positively influenced acceptance of parsley from urban farming, while food technology neophobia negatively impacted acceptance of hydroponics and robotic cultivation. The study suggests that tailored messaging highlighting the natural aspects of these methods and addressing concerns about technology could help bridge the gap between innovation and consumer acceptance in agricultural strategies. However, the study's exploratory nature limits the generalizability of the results, and future research is needed to explore additional psychological factors shaping attitudes towards novel agricultural techniques. [Extracted from the article]

The article offers information on the complexities of cannabis cultivation, blending nature, art, and science, and the challenges growers face. Topics include pest and disease management, environmental control, nutrient management, genetics and strain selection, and harvesting and processing techniques to maintain quality and potency.

The US Patent and Trademark Office has published a patent application titled "Grow Tray" by inventors from the Jones Food Company Limited in the United Kingdom. The invention aims to create indoor growing systems that optimize the use of resources like water, lighting, and labor. The patent application describes a farming system with a support structure, tray-receiving location, and an irrigation system for precise water delivery and efficient plumbing. The grow tray itself has channels for fluid communication, features for coupling with a conduit, and preventing movement on a support structure. The patent application was filed by Christoph Grundmann, Andrew Ingram-Tedd, Pawel Karolinczak, James Lloyd-Jones, Stephen Millward, and Glyn Stephens. [Extracted from the article]

New research from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Virginia Tech suggests that controlled environment agriculture and agrivoltaics systems could play a significant role in the future of farming. These innovative techniques, which include enclosed systems like greenhouses and vertical farms, as well as the use of land for both farming and solar energy generation, have the potential to increase yields, improve nutrition, enhance access to local foods, and provide year-round access to fresh food. While these technologies may not replace conventional production methods in the near future, they offer benefits such as renewable energy and reduced risk of crop failure in extreme weather conditions. [Extracted from the article]

We believe a classroom hydroponic farm can uniquely support core content while developing students' empathy, mindfulness, resilience, and self-control. And when a teacher allows students to take ownership of successes (and failures) in their farm, students are more likely to respond positively to outside challenges and press ahead despite any potential disappointment. How hydroponics grow it Hydroponic farming in the classroom provides students daily opportunities to practice mindfulness. When students share a classroom hydroponic farm, they are motivated to be good farmers for the sake of the shared returns; therefore, students learn to work together and wait for crops to reach maturity. [Extracted from the article]

Hydroponics is a method of growing plants without soil by submerging or spraying the roots with water and essential nutrients. This allows for more plants to be grown in the same surface area, making it more efficient for agriculture and mass-produced crops. Hydroponics uses one tenth of the water that natural soil growth uses and the water is collected and reused. Different types of hydroponic systems include the wick system, water culture, ebb and flow, drip system, nutrient film technology, and aeroponic system. [Extracted from the article]

Dissolved oxygen (DO) is critical for aerobic life in aquatic environments. Rapid and accurate measurements of DO are necessary to quantify the rate of oxygen uptake and maintain optimum conditions in root zones. DO meters are available across a price range of USD99 to more than USD1000. We compared three meters for stability, response time, and accuracy in freshwater [tap water, 0 g·L-1 sodium chloride (NaCl)] and saline water (simulated seawater, 35 g·L-1 NaCl) across multiple temperatures. The Yellow Springs, Inc. 550A (YSI) and Sper Scientific 850048 (Sper) meters were stable across a range of water temperatures (12-38 °C) and salinity. The Smart Sensor Roeam AR8210 drifted ±50% within minutes after calibration and was not evaluated further. In freshwater, the YSI meter was within 4% and the Sper meter was within 5% of the theoretical value at 12 and 22 °C. Meters were less accurate at 38 °C. The accuracy in saline water was similar to freshwater. Across temperature and salinity, the response time averaged 10 s for the YSI meter and 15 s for the Sper meter. We conclude that the YSI and Sper meters can provide rapid, stable, and accurate measurements of DO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With some creativity and ingenuity, educators can adapt tools and recording sheets so that all students can harness hydroponics and begin building a farming foundation. FEATURES WANT TO BOOST STUDENT ENGAGEMENT, feelings of investment, and understanding? Hydroponics is a form of farming that uses no soil, either as the foothold for roots or the supplier of necessary nutrients. [Extracted from the article]