Hydroponics can certainly be used to grow more than just herbs and lettuce. I spend a lot of time spreading that message to those new to hydroponics. In fact, countries like Scotland are experimenting with growing trees in hydroponics to replenish forests.
According to an article in the Guardian, Scotland is turning to hydroponics to help stem the effects of climate change. Hydroponics is being used to grow a variety of trees which will be planted in local forests for the purposes of reforestation.
The installed system running as a proof of concept can reportedly cut the time it takes to grow saplings to the required height from 18 months to 90 days.
That’s an amazing improvement! This speedy growth is what makes hydroponics so compelling for slow-growing plants like pine trees.
The Guardian reports, “Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) wants to plant tens of millions of new trees in the coming years – conifers such as Norway and sitka spruce, douglas fir and Scots pine, and broadleaf varieties such as oak, alder, and birch.
Historically, the UK has imported a significant portion of conifer tree stock needed to replenish forests. If successful, this trial could be a huge step in using homegrown trees.
Growing trees in hydroponics to counter climate changes sounds pretty cool, right?
This is just one example of how Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) and vertical farming are pushing agriculture forward.
Ready to learn how CEA and vertical farming are changing agriculture? Check out this article that talks all about vertical farming and this write-up on CEA!
