This is how we grow 18 cabbages vertically on aeroponic towers #cabbage #farming #agriculture

This Video is from the Youtube channel: “Agrotonomy”. 

1. Rockwool: This soilless growing substrate is made from basaltic rock that is melted and spun into fibers. In its dry form, it naturally has a high pH, so we first soak it in reverse osmosis water adjusted to a pH of around 5.5–6.0, which is ideal for seed germination.

2. Cabbage Seeds: It’s extremely important not to sow more than one cabbage seed per cube in order to avoid overcrowding and competition between the plants later on.

3. Vermiculite: This is a naturally occurring mineral that expands when heated. It has an excellent air-to-water ratio, helps keep the seeds in place, improves moisture retention for germination, and is chemically inert, meaning it does not significantly react with or alter the nutrient solution.

4. Seedlings: After about three weeks, the seedlings should have 2–4 true leaves before being transplanted into the towers.

5. Transplanting: We never transplant more than two cabbage seedlings per growing port in order to provide enough space for the cabbages to properly develop and reach their full size.

6. Pest Management: The main pest affecting our cabbages are cabbage worms. During the first month of growth, we apply Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) once per week, a naturally occurring beneficial bacteria approved for organic farming. Bt specifically targets caterpillars when they feed on the leaves, helping protect the crop without harming beneficial insects, humans, or the plants themselves.

7. Growth Cycle: The cabbages are automatically irrigated inside the towers with nutrient-enriched water containing all essential macronutrients and trace elements needed for healthy growth.

8. Harvest: Once the cabbages are ready for harvest, we remove the outer cabbage leaves before harvesting the heads. These leaves are also completely edible and we use them either raw or cooked.