Vertical farming is an innovative method of agriculture in which plants are grown in multiple vertical layers or stacked structures. This occurs in containers or special indoor farms that utilize LED lighting, hydroponics, or aeroponics. The aim is to save space, use water efficiently and produce fresh food regardless of weather conditions.

Indoor farming is a method of growing plants in enclosed spaces such as greenhouses, containers, or special grow rooms. It uses artificial lighting, controlled climate conditions, and techniques such as hydroponics or aeroponics. This enables year-round production regardless of the weather, reduces water consumption and minimizes the use of pesticides.

Hydroponics is a method of growing plants without soil. Instead, the plants grow in a nutrient solution containing all essential minerals. The roots are either directly in the water or in an inert substrate such as coconut fiber or rockwool. This technique enables more efficient use of water and nutrients, promotes faster plant growth and is often used in indoor or vertical farming systems.

Aeroponics is an innovative cultivation method in which plants grow without soil or substrate. Instead, the roots are suspended in the air and regularly sprayed with a fine nutrient solution. This technique enables optimal oxygen supply to the roots, reduces water consumption and promotes rapid plant growth.

✅ Space saving: The vertical arrangement allows more plants to be grown in a smaller area. ✅ Year-round production: Continuous harvesting is possible regardless of weather and seasons. ✅ Water efficiency: Modern systems such as hydroponics or aeroponics use up to 90% less water than traditional agriculture. ✅ Fewer pesticides: Due to the controlled environment, hardly any pesticides are required. ✅ Higher yield: Optimized light and nutrient supply leads to faster growth and higher yields.

Yes, vertical farming saves a significant amount of water compared to traditional agriculture. Closed cultivation systems such as hydroponics or aeroponics direct water directly to the plants and reuse it. This reduces water consumption by up to 90%. Furthermore, there is no seepage or evaporation like in open fields. This makes vertical farming a particularly water-efficient cultivation method.

Microgreens are young, edible seedlings that are typically harvested after 7–21 days. They are larger than sprouts but smaller than mature plants. Microgreens have an intense flavor, are rich in nutrients and are often used as a garnish or in salads. The most well-known type of microgreens is garden cress.

The main difference between microgreens and sprouts lies in their growth, harvest time and use:

✅ More nutrients – Microgreens often contain higher amounts of vitamins, antioxidants and minerals than sprouts. ✅ Better hygiene – Unlike microgreens, sprouts are grown in a glass jar without substrate or soil. This increases the risk of mold growth. ✅ More intense flavor – Microgreens have a more pronounced aroma and offer a greater variety of flavors than sprouts. ✅ More versatile use – They are suitable as a salad or salad garnish, as a garnish, in smoothies or sandwiches. ✅ Longer shelf life – Microgreens stay fresh longer after harvest, while sprouts spoil quickly.