Cultivating Green Innovation: Drip Fertigation System Optimization

The realm of hydroponics thrives on constant innovation. From the beginner-friendly Kratky method to the efficient Nutrient Film Technique (NFT) system, growers possess a diverse range of techniques to explore. Mr. Norman Ang, owner of the City of Greens Farm in Bacoor, Cavite, exemplifies this spirit of experimentation and adaptation. Established at the height of the pandemic lockdown in December 2020, his farm embodies a commitment to continuous improvement.

A Testament of the City of Greens Farm

Mr. Ang’s journey commenced with a DIY Dutch Bucket System, a system where multiple plant containers share irrigation and drainage. He cultivated lowland tomatoes using a unique growing medium – a blend of pumice and hydrotons. His rooftop farm flourished with a variety of crops, including lettuce, bok choy, Chinese kangkong, cherry tomatoes, and capsicums, all nurtured by a flood-and-drain system alongside the Dutch buckets. However, Mr. Ang initially faced limitations. The rooftop farm lacked a reliable power and water supply. In response, they implemented a portable solar generator coupled with a tent-style greenhouse. While resourceful, this solution presented challenges:

• Insufficient Water Flow: Limited solar power and a pump made of inferior materials resulted in insufficient water flow for the crops.
• Inadequate Temperature Management: The greenhouse’s height wasn’t ideal for effectively regulating temperatures.
• Knowledge Gap: Relying primarily on social media for information posed challenges in optimizing his systems.

Embracing Drip Fertigation

These issues prompted Norman to explore alternative methods. Following a fungus infestation in 2023, he implemented a complete system overhaul. This innovative approach, named “Drip Fertigation,” offers several advantages over his previous setup:

• Simplified Maintenance: The method eliminates the need for styrofoam cups and frequent channel cleaning.
• Reduced Environmental Impact: Less cocopeat is required, making the system more eco-friendly.
• Sustainable Practices: The system enables the reuse of growing media.
• Precise Water Delivery: Water drips directly to the plant roots, minimizing waste and maximizing efficiency.
• Reduced Evaporation: Styrofoam boxes can be used as grow boxes, maintaining moisture in the growing medium for an extended period.

While occasional clogging occurs with micro drip emitters, Mr. Ang considers it a manageable aspect of the system. City of Greens Farm has also developed a comprehensive management plan encompassing proper procedures, material selection, and sanitary practices.

Aspirations for Fellow Growers

Mr. Ang’s venture with hydroponics began based on recommendations, leading him to Nutrihydro products. His continuous use of Nutrihydro stems from the company’s reliable customer service and the demonstrably positive impact their products have on his crops. Norman’s system approach produces an impressive weekly average of 170 to 180 heads of Olmetie, Romaine, Tourbillon, Lalique, and Blackrose. He aims to be the pioneer of Drip Fertigation in Philippine hydroponics and expanding his farm with a larger greenhouse. He affirms that growers should educate themselves with the benefits and drawbacks of hydroponics. Be prepared for unforeseen challenges. If experienced growers are currently obtaining optimal growth with NFT, carefully analyze the potential benefits before switching systems. And for the beginners? Don’t hesitate to embark on their hydroponic path! As long as they can produce more grow material and grow boxes, they have the potential to succeed.