In this article, we are going to see how to reduce vertical farming costs.
Tips to reduce vertical farming costs
There are a number of important variables to consider when setting up your own vertical farm that requires significant financial strength. Light Science Technologies offers a bespoke solution that helps farmers get higher yields while saving costs and energy.
Location
Although you do not need as much land as traditional planting, finding the right location for your vertical farm is important. The wrong place can prove a costly mistake, so do your homework before you do it. Do you have the right local infrastructure to get your product to your customer as efficiently as possible? Can you get enough electricity? How much does water cost in this region compared to the next?
See also: BEST 10 PLANTS TO GROW IN VERTICAL GARDEN
Reduce energy costs
However, for your energy saving, you will still be using large amounts of electricity every year. An inexpensive solution might be to make your own renewable energy. That may not be possible on all sites, but even the micro generation can help lower your operational expense.
Consult an expert
Vertical farming is not easy. Start building relationships as quickly as possible with people who know everything about it, from lighting and data to botany.
Estimate operating costs and capital expenditures
Think of a big picture in terms of cost. Spending extra money in the beginning may benefit you later. For example, large technological investments to operate planting, feeding, irrigation and harvesting will require a large initial investment, but very small staff; labor costs can easily account for more than 50% of direct farm operating costs.
See also: CROPS SUITABLE FOR DRIP IRRIGATION
Do not cut corners
Shop wisely. Avoid gambling on cheap products, such as imported bulbs. Make sure the big costs come with the right guarantees and support if something goes wrong.
Cutting corners now can cause side effects later, and not just the cost of repairs and replacements. Cheap options can mean flexibility, killing the real power of your straightforward farm.
Choose your plants carefully
There is good and bad in different kinds of plants. Fast-growing plants are usually cheaper to grow, leading to more productivity. However, some slow-growing plants, such as medicinal cannabis, can greatly benefit each plant. Some plants require less energy. Some take up less space so you can pack more. Quick research and compilation of numbers will help you choose the best option for your specific farm.
Know your audience
If you think there is a market for what is growing then you can fail. Many vertical growers focus on fast-growing salad crops. In advanced cases, you can end up producing 30 tons of salad a day. But can you guarantee the sale of lettuce during the winter? Most likely, this could mean extensive damage or allow part of your vertical farm to remain idle for a few weeks, which would mean a reduction in compensation.
Sound and early planning is important and will allow you to consider different crop rotations every few months with flexible lighting systems, if needed.