A few weeks ago, I talked with a group of small microgreens growers. We concluded that in the face of global environmental crises, the role of sustainable business practices has never been more critical. We agreed that the cultivation of microgreens is one sector where this is particularly evident.
Microgreens, the young seedlings of edible vegetables and herbs, have been recognized for their nutritional density and are increasingly popular in various culinary applications. But beyond their dietary benefits, microgreens also represent a sustainable and innovative approach to urban agriculture.
Technology plays a crucial role in microgreens businesses by enhancing sustainability and efficiency. It aids in optimizing growth conditions, reducing resource waste, and improving yield, thus contributing to a more sustainable and profitable business model.
This post will explore the role of technology in microgreens businesses, focusing on how it can enhance sustainability and efficiency. We will delve into the various technological innovations transforming this sector and how entrepreneurs can leverage them to create a greener future.
But how exactly does technology achieve this? And what are the specific technologies that are making a difference in the microgreens industry? Read on to find out.
Key Takeaways
- Climate Control Systems: Utilize smart thermostats and humidity sensors to maintain optimal growing conditions, reducing crop failure risk.
- LED Grow Lights: Invest in energy-efficient LED lights that can be adjusted to provide the precise light spectrum needed for microgreens growth.
- Automated Irrigation Systems: Implement automated systems to ensure the correct amount of water is delivered at the right time, minimizing water waste and plant stress.
- Soilless Cultivation: Consider hydroponic or aeroponic systems to eliminate soil-borne diseases and optimize space usage through vertical farming.
- Data Monitoring and Analysis: Use sensors and data analytics tools to monitor real-time crop conditions, enabling informed decision-making and quick issue resolution.
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Microgreens are young green vegetables, approximately 1 to 3 inches in height. They have an aromatic taste and have a high concentration of nutrients, ranging from color to texture. Microgreens are not a specific kind of plant — they are any vegetable or herb harvested just after the cotyledon leaves have developed.
The cultivation of microgreens is a sustainable practice in itself. Growing requires minimal space and resources, making them ideal for urban farming. They can be grown in various settings, from a dedicated greenhouse to a repurposed shipping container, and even in indoor spaces using vertical farming techniques.
The role of technology in this process is multifaceted. It aids in creating optimal growth conditions, automating processes, reducing resource waste, and improving yield. Technologies such as automated irrigation systems, LED lighting, and climate control systems can drastically enhance the efficiency and sustainability of a microgreens business.
To help you get started with your microgreen journey, here are some affiliate products and services that we recommend:
Microgreen Seeds from True Leaf Market: True Leaf Market offers various non-GMO microgreen seeds. Whether you’re looking for radish, broccoli, or arugula microgreens, they have you covered. Their selection is available here: https://www.gopjn.com/t/2-367178-282438-153185.
General Hydroponics Flora Series, available on Amazon, is a complete nutrient solution for hydroponic microgreens.
GH General Hydroponics Flora Series: FloraGro, FloraBloom, FloraMicro 16oz
$28.29 (as of July 12, 2024 10:10 GMT -05:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Precision farming is a technique that involves using technology and science, such as GPS, IoT sensors, drones, farm management software, and data analytics, to optimize farming practices: such as fertilization, irrigation, and pest control. This approach allows us, as microgreens farmers, to collect and analyze data about our trays, such as soil nutrient levels, moisture content, and temperature, to make informed decisions about crop management.
We can break down the application of technology in microgreens businesses into several key areas.
Climate Control
You must maintain the growth of microgreens at a proper temperature and humidity. Technologies such as smart thermostats and humidity sensors can automate this process, ensuring optimal growth conditions and reducing the risk of crop failure. These systems can be programmed to maintain specific conditions. They can even send alerts if the environment deviates from the set parameters.
Lighting
For photosynthesis, microgreens need a lot of light. Due to their efficiency and the fact that it is possible to adapt them in such a way as to provide some of the light spectra which plants need for their growth, LED growing lights are widely used on indoor farms. Some advanced lighting systems adjust light intensity and duration, enabling more precise control over the plant’s growth.
Irrigation
Overwatering can lead to issues such as mold growth or root rot. Automated irrigation systems can provide the right amount of water at the right time, reducing water waste and ensuring the health of the plants. These systems can be programmed to water the plants at specific intervals, ensuring that the plants receive the right amount of water without any manual intervention.
Soil Health
Some microgreens businesses use technology to go soilless, using hydroponic or aeroponic systems instead. These systems circulate nutrient-rich water around the roots of the plants, reducing the need for soil and the associated risk of soil-borne diseases. They also allow for more efficient use of space, as they can be stacked vertically, making them ideal for urban environments.
Data Monitoring and Analysis
Technologies such as sensors and data analytics software can provide farmers with real-time information about their crops, helping them make informed decisions and quickly address any issues. These systems can monitor various parameters, including light intensity, temperature, humidity, and soil moisture levels, providing a comprehensive overview of the growing conditions.
Automation
From seeding to harvesting, you can automate various processes in the cultivation of microgreens. Automation not only reduces labor costs but also increases efficiency and productivity. Automation can also lead to more consistent results, as it eliminates the variability associated with manual labor.
Practical Application: Harnessing Technology for Growing Microgreens Growing
So, how can you, as a microgreens entrepreneur, harness these technologies to enhance your business? Here are some practical steps you can take:
Invest in Climate Control Systems
These systems can help you maintain the optimal temperature and humidity levels for your crops, reducing the risk of crop failure. They would be easy for you to integrate into your existing arrangements and give you peace of mind that the crops will grow as well as possible.
Smart Thermostat: If you want to keep the optimum temperature and humidity levels for your microgreens plants, an intelligent thermostat will help. The ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium with Smart Sensor and Air Quality Monitor on Amazon is ideal for small indoor microgreens production.
ecobee New Smart Thermostat Premium with Smart Sensor and Air Quality Monitor – Programmable Wifi Thermostat – Works with Siri, Alexa, Google Assistant
12% Off $249.99 $215.79 (as of July 13, 2024 05:05 GMT -05:00 – More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Use LED Grow Lights
These lights are energy-efficient and can provide the specific light spectrum your plants need to grow. You can easily install and adjust, allowing you to tailor the lighting conditions to the specific needs of your crops.
LED Grow Lights: Energy-efficient lights can provide the specific light spectrum your plants need to grow. The Vivosun AeroLight, available on Amazon, has an integrated circulatory fan to increase canopy airflow, balance temp and humidity, and full-spectrum for all mobile programmable and adjustable growth stages.
VIVOSUN AeroLight A100SE, LED Grow Light 100W with Integrated Circulation Fan & GrowHub Controller E25, Compatible with App and E42A, 2 x 2 Ft. Coverage, Establish an Intelligent Grow Environment
$119.99 (as of July 13, 2024 05:05 GMT -05:00 – More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Implement Automated Irrigation Systems
These systems can help you provide the right amount of water at the right time, reducing water waste and ensuring the health of your plants. They will be easy to install in an existing system, so you don’t have to worry about ensuring your crops receive the correct amount of water.
Automated Irrigation System: An irrigation system that can help you provide the right amount of water at the right time, reducing water waste and ensuring the health of your plants. The Hydro Auto Drip Irrigation Kits, available on Amazon, can be used with a timer or iHub to achieve automatic simultaneous irrigation. Great as a starter kit for a small indoor farm.
MARS HYDRO Auto Drip Irrigation Kits Garden Watering System for Indoor, Lawn, Greenhouse, Yard, 5-Gallon Bucket 22W Water Pump with 8 Drip Emitters
$99.99 (as of July 13, 2024 05:05 GMT -05:00 – More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Consider Going Soilless
Hydroponic or aeroponic systems can reduce the need for soil and the associated risk of soil-borne diseases. They can also allow for more efficient use of space, as they can be stacked vertically, making them ideal for urban environments.
Hydroponic System: A soil-less cultivation system that eliminates the need for soil and the associated risk of soil-borne diseases.
Leverage Data Monitoring and Analysis Tools
These tools will allow you to receive timely information about your crops, allowing you to make decisions and respond promptly to any problems that may arise. They can monitor various parameters, including light intensity, temperature, humidity, and soil moisture levels, providing a comprehensive overview of the growing conditions.
Data Monitoring and Analysis Tools: Tools that allow you to make informed choices and respond promptly to any issues that might occur by providing accurate data about your crops. Explore more at Farmers Edge, https://www.farmersedge.ca/.
Automate Processes Where Possible
Automation may reduce the cost of labor and increase efficiency and productivity. It can also lead to more consistent results, eliminating the variability associated with manual labor. Various automation tools, from seeding machines to automated harvesters, can help you streamline your operations.
Automation Tools: Tools that can automate various processes in the cultivation of microgreens, reducing labor costs and increasing efficiency and productivity. FarmBot is the application of technology for small farmers, https://www.farmbot.io/
Implementing these technologies can enhance your business’s sustainability and efficiency and contribute to a greener future. And by investing in these products and services, you can take a significant step towards enhancing the sustainability and efficiency of your microgreens business.
If you’re interested in growing your microgreens at home, check out these resources:
LED Grow Light from Roleadro: This LED light is perfect for indoor gardening. It provides the ideal light spectrum for plant growth and is energy-efficient. Please get it here.
Roleadro LED Grow Light, 1200W 2nd Generation Plant Light Full Spectrum for Indoor Greenhouse Hydroponic Plants Veg and Flower
(as of July 13, 2024 05:05 GMT -05:00 – More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
My Microgreens Growing Book available from Amazon: “CHILDREN OF THE SOIL: Nine Days To Growing Nutritious Microgreens At Home” is an excellent resource for understanding the lifecycle of microgreens and how to care for them. Find it here.
CHILDREN OF THE SOIL: Nine Days To Growing Nutritious Microgreens At Home (The Easy Guide to Microgreens)
$25.45 (as of July 12, 2024 20:10 GMT -05:00 – More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Remember, every purchase you make through these links supports our work to bring you the best microgreens content, “tray tested, science backed.” Happy growing!
Related Questions
What are some other sustainable practices for microgreens businesses?
Besides leveraging technology, other sustainable practices include using organic seeds, reducing plastic use, composting plant waste, and selling locally to reduce carbon emissions from transportation. Explore other sustainability practices in my post, “Unleashing the Power of Microgreens in Permaculture – A Sustainable Home Gardener’s Guide.”
Are there any challenges in implementing these technologies?
Challenges can include high upfront costs, a lack of technical knowledge, and the need for ongoing maintenance and updates. However, the long-term benefits of sustainability and profitability often outweigh these challenges. If you are not technically or digitally inclined, I suggest you try a system like VertiGrow. VertiGrow is a software platform that helps microgreen growers automate their operations. The software includes features such as climate control, lighting, and irrigation.
Where can I find more information about these technologies?
Many resources are available online, including scientific research papers, industry reports, and forums where microgreens entrepreneurs share their experiences and advice. If you want more in-depth information, contact Andrew Neves at andrew.neves@microgreensworld.com.
Wrap-Up: The Future of Technology in Growing Microgreens
The role of technology in microgreens businesses is multifaceted and transformative. From climate control to automation, technology is enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of these businesses, contributing to a greener future. As a microgreens entrepreneur, leveraging these technologies can help you optimize growth conditions, reduce resource waste, and improve yield, leading to a more sustainable and profitable business model.
But the journey doesn’t end here. Innovation opportunities in the microgreen sector will only increase as technology develops. So, stay informed, stay adaptable, and strive for sustainability in all aspects of your business.
Build A Commercial Microgreens Startup
In this free 10-lesson email course, we explain why you shouldn’t create a “business plan.”
From there, we take you on a journey of discovery that has been trekked by tens of thousands of other entrepreneurs just like you.
We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.
Share the Guide
Ready to take your microgreens business to the next level? Start implementing these quality control measures today.
And remember, we’re here to help. Write to us at support@microgreensworld.com with your questions or experiences. Share this post with your fellow green entrepreneurs, and stay tuned for more tips and insights on sustainable microgreen farming.
For a wealth of knowledge, read the post “Identifying Your Market: The Demand for Microgreens (Episode 1)” to explore microgreens more.
References
- Balmadrid, Davie B., Mallorca, Joan N., Gerardo, Bobby D., and Medina, Ruji P. “IoT-based LED Lighting System with Variable Pulsing Frequency and Dark Periods for Sunflower Microgreens.” International Journal Emerging Technology and Advanced Engineering 12.8, 2022, pp. 136-143., ISSN 2250-2459, https://doi.org/10.46338/ijetae0822_17
- Teng, Zi, et al. “Microgreens for Home, Commercial, and Space Farming: A Comprehensive Update of the Most Recent Developments.” Annual Review of Food Science and Technology, vol. 14, no. 1, 16 Dec. 2022, https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-food-060721-024636.
- Fabek Uher, Sanja, et al. “Alfalfa, Cabbage, Beet, and Fennel Microgreens in Floating Hydroponics—Perspective Nutritious Food?” Plants, vol. 12, no. 11, 1 Jan. 2023, p. 2098, www.mdpi.com/2223-7747/12/11/2098, https://doi.org/10.3390/plants12112098.
- Parkes, Michael G., et al. “Life Cycle Assessment of a Prospective Technology for Building-Integrated Production of Broccoli Microgreens.” Atmosphere, vol. 13, no. 8, 18 Aug. 2022, p. 1317, https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos13081317. Accessed 2 Nov. 2022.
- Evan, Felicia, et al. “IoT Architectural Design for Microgreens Cultivation.” IEEE Xplore, 1 Aug. 2022, https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/abstract/document/9915013/
