By Sydney McClain
As more people become conscious about the quality and origin of their food, gardening is on the rise. Whether it be buying from the local farmer’s market or seeking out a farm with the best tasting strawberries in the state, we all want better quality food for our families.
Tower gardening has been an option that has become very popular with families and businesses that sometimes don’t have the space or want to take away the task of weeding. Whatever the reason, it is an investment that if done correctly can make anyone privy to growing their own garden.
Is it truly gardening if there isn’t any soil to work? Well, yes, in its own right, it is. The aeroponic system uses only water and other nutrients to grow the plants, so say goodbye to soil test, nematodes, and contaminated soil.
Instead, the seeds are grown in a soilless medium called rockwool. “Rockwool provides plant roots with oxygen and consistent moisture, encouraging rapid, healthy growth…” (Grow Vegetables, Fruits & More in a Vertical Garden). The system uses a water pump that takes the nutrient solution (initially provided), located in the reservoir, and thrusts the solution inside the top of the tower. The solution is then able to saturate the roots in 15-minute timed intervals, taking away the hassle of finding someone to water your plants while you are on vacation. Aside from occasionally checking water levels and cleaning the water pump, there is minimal maintenance for these systems.
The result of tower gardening can produce higher yields more quickly, while also conserving water. However, to some, nothing will compare to the satisfaction of truly “getting your hands dirty.”
“Grow Vegetables, Fruits & More in a Vertical Garden.” Tower Garden, for more information, visit www.towergarden.com.
Advanced Garland County Master Gardener, Sydney McClain, volunteers with Garland County Master Gardeners of the UofA Div. of Agriculture, Cooperative Ext. Service. Master Gardeners pool skills and resources to improve home horticulture, stimulate interest in plants and gardening, and encourage beautification. For more information, call 501-623-6841 or email adykes@uaex.edu. The University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture is an equal opportunity/equal access/affirmative action institution.
