What is Vertical Farming?
GROWING PLANTS Chris Harvey GROWING PLANTS Chris Harvey

What is Vertical Farming?

Vertical farming is a modern agricultural technique that involves growing crops in stacked layers, typically in controlled indoor environments. This method maximizes the use of space and allows for farming in urban areas or other locations where horizontal land space is limited. Vertical farming can utilize various growing methods, including hydroponics, aeroponics, and traditional soil-based systems.

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Tangerine Tomatoes
GROWING PLANTS Chris Harvey GROWING PLANTS Chris Harvey

Tangerine Tomatoes

Tangerine tomatoes are a unique variety of heirloom tomatoes known for their vibrant orange colour and sweet, rich flavour. They differ from the traditional red tomatoes not only in appearance but also in taste and nutritional content.

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Best Light for Tomato Plants
GROWING PLANTS Chris Harvey GROWING PLANTS Chris Harvey

Best Light for Tomato Plants

The best light for tomato plants, whether grown indoors or in a hoop house / polytunnel or greenhouse, should mimic natural sunlight to ensure optimal growth, fruit development, and flavour. Different types of light provide specific wavelengths that benefit tomato plants at various stages of their growth.

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The Hoop House UK - Sun Protection for Tomato Plants
GROWING PLANTS Chris Harvey GROWING PLANTS Chris Harvey

The Hoop House UK - Sun Protection for Tomato Plants

To protect plants from excessive sun and heat inside a polytunnel / hoop house you can use a variety of methods such as installing shade cloth, applying whitewash, improving ventilation, mulching, and using drip irrigation. The goal is to balance the amount of sunlight entering the tunnel while preventing overheating, ensuring your plants thrive under optimal conditions. By using these techniques, you can create a controlled environment where plants get the sunlight they need without being damaged by excess heat.

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What is an Air Pruning Pot?
GROWING PLANTS Chris Harvey GROWING PLANTS Chris Harvey

What is an Air Pruning Pot?

An Air Pruning Pot, is a type of plant container designed to promote healthier root growth by preventing root circling and encouraging the development of a more fibrous root system. It is commonly used in gardening, hydroponics, and other plant-growing setups.

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UV Light - Hoop House / Poly Tunnel
GROWING PLANTS Chris Harvey GROWING PLANTS Chris Harvey

UV Light - Hoop House / Poly Tunnel

The amount of UV light that passes through a polytunnel depends largely on the type and quality of the plastic cover used. Polytunnels, also known as hoop houses, are typically covered with polyethylene film or other types of plastic sheeting, which can either block or allow certain wavelengths of light, including ultraviolet (UV) light, to pass through.

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Fungicides
GROWING PLANTS Chris Harvey GROWING PLANTS Chris Harvey

Fungicides

Fungicides are essential tools in modern agriculture for controlling plant diseases and ensuring crop productivity. However, the growing awareness of their environmental impact and the rise of fungicide resistance has driven innovation in developing more sustainable, biological, and integrated approaches to plant protection.

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Different Types of Hydroponics
GROWING PLANTS Chris Harvey GROWING PLANTS Chris Harvey

Different Types of Hydroponics

Choosing the right hydroponic system depends on factors such as the types of plants you want to grow, your budget, available space, and maintenance capacity. Each system has its unique advantages and challenges, so understanding these can help you select the most suitable one for your needs. Hydroponics offers a sustainable and efficient way to grow plants, making it an increasingly popular choice for gardeners and commercial growers alike.

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Different Types of Fertilizer
GROWING PLANTS Chris Harvey GROWING PLANTS Chris Harvey

Different Types of Fertilizer

Choosing the right type of fertilizer depends on your specific gardening needs, soil conditions, and the plants you are growing. Organic fertilizers are excellent for improving long-term soil health, while inorganic fertilizers offer immediate nutrient availability. Combining both types can provide a balanced approach to nurturing your garden.

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