In Ann Arbor Michigan, one hydroponic grower is creating the business Crop Spot Farms, providing mobile hydroponic farms in mobile places around the area. If you’re not familiar with hydroponic farms, they are farms that are climate, light and temperature controlled built inside shipping containers. This farm is especially unique because they are vertical growers, which means that everything they grow is grown vertically instead of the traditional horizontal growth.

It develops the equivalent of two-acres of regular farm growth, retrofitted in a previously used, or cargo-worthy, shipping container. The farm produces lettuce, arugula, swiss chard, kale and herbs which are nestled between grow lights. The climate and irrigation system is controlled by an app on the owner’s (Nabeel Kasim) phone which he closely monitors. Making it not only eco-friendly but also tech savvy- a modernization trend that we would love to see continue.

Kasim explained that growing hydroponically requires 95% less water, making it much more environmentally friendly than traditional grow methods. It also cuts down on the amount of bugs and pesticides issues that come with growing outdoors. Another great reason why hydroponic farms work so well in climates like Michigan is that it allows farmers to have year-round produce. That is something that, in places like Ann Arbor which has limited harvest seasons, is a great option, and really is a necessary option for fresh produce.

Crop Spot Farms is just one of many Hydroponic Farms popping up in the U.S. that offers alternative ways to efficiently grow fresh produce and is yet another great use of shipping containers. If YOU are interested in becoming a hydroponic farmer, our company sells excellent cargo-worthy and one trip units. We can custom cut new units to meet the needs of any grower. If you are interested, contact us today. We would love to help you start your new growing adventure!