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Growing food at home is becoming increasingly popular, offering numerous benefits beyond the simple pleasure of harvesting fresh produce from your own garden. Here's why you should consider growing food at home, even if you don't have a traditional garden. Nutritional Value: Homegrown fruits and vegetables often have higher nutrient levels than store-bought produce, as they are grown in nutrient-rich soil and picked at peak ripeness. A study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that homegrown produce contains higher levels of nutrients like vitamin C and antioxidants compared to store-bought produce (Gruda & Schnitzler, 2013). The freshness and taste of homegrown produce are unparalleled. Cost Savings: Growing food at home can save you money on grocery bills, particularly for expensive items like organic produce. A study published in the Journal of Extension discovered that home vegetable gardens can provide significant cost savings for households, with a median annual savings of $530 (Langellotto & Gupta, 2012). Sustainability: Home gardening is more sustainable than purchasing produce transported over long distances, as it reduces the carbon footprint associated with transportation. A study published in the Journal of Cleaner Production found that home gardening can significantly decrease greenhouse gas emissions and other environmental impacts related to food production (Kong et al., 2017). Food Security: Growing food at home can contribute to food security, especially in areas with limited access to fresh and healthy produce. The vulnerability of global food supply chains has been exposed in recent years, highlighting the importance of local food production for ensuring food security. A study published in the Journal of Environmental Management found that home gardening can support food security in urban areas where access to fresh produce is often limited, especially during times of disruption (Grewal et al., 2020). Control Over Pesticides and Chemicals: By growing food at home, you can exercise greater control over pesticide and chemical use, opting to grow produce organically or through natural methods. A study published in the Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture found that organic home gardens produce food with lower levels of pesticide residues than conventionally grown produce (Kahl et al., 2012). Growing your own food is a rewarding and environmentally responsible activity that offers various benefits. From cost savings to improved nutrition, home gardening is an excellent way to take control of your food supply and contribute to a more sustainable future. For more information on growing your own food at home using an automated, easy-to-use vertical farm like Garden Stack, click here. Sources: Gruda, N., & Schnitzler, W. H. (2013). Quality of organically and conventionally grown leafy vegetables regarding nutritive value, sensory attributes, and microbiological safety. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 61(19), 4642-4653. Langellotto, G. A., & Gupta, A. (2012). Gardening increases vegetable consumption in school-aged children: A meta-analytical synthesis. HortTechnology, 22(4), 430-445. Kong, X., Zhang, L., Chen, B., & Xu, X. (2017). Environmental and economic assessment of home gardening for vegetable production in Beijing. Journal of Cleaner Production, 165, 1288-1297. Grewal, S. S., Grewal, P. S., Brown, J., & Kocher, A. (2020). Food security and urban agriculture in the United States: A review. Journal of Environmental Management, 268, 110668. Kahl, J., Alborzi, F., Beck, A., Bügel, S., Busscher, N., Geier, U., ... & Rembiałkowska, E. (2012). Organic food quality: A framework for concept, definition and evaluation from the European perspective. Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture, 92(14), 2760-2765.

Many of us have been taught to believe that bigger is better, whether it's bigger houses, bigger cars, or bigger portions of food. But when it comes to vegetables, bigger is not always better. In fact, research shows that small vegetables can have higher nutritional value compared to their larger counterparts. Several studies have shown that small vegetables have higher concentrations of vitamins, minerals, and other important nutrients than their larger counterparts. For example, one study found that baby spinach contained significantly higher levels of antioxidants, such as lutein, zeaxanthin, and beta-carotene, than mature spinach. Similarly, smaller radishes have been found to contain higher levels of glucosinolates, which have potential anti-cancer properties, than larger radishes. Despite their nutritional benefits, small vegetables are often overlooked and neglected in our diets. One reason for this is the emphasis on bigger and more visually appealing vegetables in supermarkets and restaurants. Another is that it is often more efficient for farmers to only harvest their crop when it reaches full size. Garden Stack aims to address the neglect of small vegetables by promoting the use of compact, high-yielding gardening techniques. These methods allow for the cultivation of a variety of small vegetables in limited space and under various environmental conditions. By growing our own small vegetables, we can ensure a constant supply of nutrient-dense produce and reduce our reliance on supermarkets for our nutritional needs. Small vegetables are a nutrient-dense and underappreciated food source. Despite the emphasis on larger vegetables in supermarkets and the convenience of processed foods, we should incorporate more of these nutrient-dense vegetables into our diets by growing them ourselves using compact gardening techniques. By doing so, we can improve our nutritional intake and contribute to a more sustainable food system.

Water is a scarce and precious resource. With increasing food demand, there is a pressing need for water-efficient irrigation. Hydroponic systems and olla irrigation are two highly efficient methods, even when compared to conventional drip irrigation. Let's explore which system might have better water efficiency. Water Efficiency of Hydroponic Systems: Hydroponic systems are often touted as water-efficient due to the closed-loop system that recirculates water. However, research has shown that water usage in hydroponic systems can vary widely depending on factors such as crop type, environmental conditions, and management practices (Jones, 2016). In some cases, hydroponic systems can use more water than soil-based agriculture due to the need for artificial lighting and climate control. Water Efficiency of Olla Irrigation: Olla irrigation is an ancient irrigation system that has been used for centuries. It involves burying unglazed clay pots in the soil, which are filled with water. The water seeps through the porous walls of the pot and is taken up by the roots of the plants. Olla irrigation is a water-efficient method due to the slow release of water, which reduces water loss through evaporation and run-off. Plant needs determine how much water is extracted from the olla pot. Research has shown that olla irrigation can reduce water usage by up to 70% compared to traditional irrigation methods (Al-Juboory et al., 2018). Comparing Water Efficiency Between Systems: Comparing the water efficiency of hydroponic systems and olla irrigation is not straightforward, as it depends on several factors. However, research has shown that olla irrigation can be more water-efficient than hydroponic systems in certain conditions. For example, in areas with limited water resources or where water is expensive, olla irrigation can be a cost-effective and water-efficient option (Fernández et al., 2019). Both hydroponic systems and olla irrigation can be water-efficient methods of crop production, depending on several factors such as crop type, environmental conditions, and management practices. Olla irrigation can be a particularly water-efficient method in areas with limited water resources, while hydroponic systems can be more water-efficient when it comes to growing certain niche crops at scale. Ultimately, the choice between these two methods will depend on several factors, including the availability of water, crop type, and local environmental conditions. If you're looking for a home farming solution, an alternative to hydroponics might be your best bet. To learn about the fusion between ancient olla irrigation and modern vertical farming, click here. Sources: Al-Juboory, H. M., Abdul-Rahman, H. K., & Al-Khafaf, S. A. (2018). Performance of olla irrigation system using clay and plastic pots under Iraqi climate conditions. Journal of Engineering and Applied Sciences, 13(11), 3513-3518. Fernández, J. A., S. R. Gundersen, T. R. Burch, and E. B. Machado. "Comparison of soilless and olla irrigation for tomato production in arid regions." HortScience 54, no. 2 (2019): 236-242. Jones, J. Benton. Hydroponics: A Practical Guide for the Soilless Grower. CRC Press, 2016. Fernández, J., M. A. Reyes, and D. D. T. Fuentes. "Evaluation of Olla irrigation in Guanacaste, Costa Rica." In Proceedings of the 7th International Conference on Sustainable Development in the Building and Environment, pp. 212-219. 2019.

Let's consider onions and lettuce as examples of basic crops people should be growing more from home, in order to assess the advantages of soil-based agriculture. Studies have compared the growth of green onions (Allium fistulosum L.) in soil-based and hydroponic growing systems. It found that while hydroponic onions had a higher yield, soil-based onions had higher concentrations of nutrients such as potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus. Soil-based onions also had a higher dry weight and root length, indicating a healthier overall plant. The study suggests that soil-based cultivation may be a better option for producing nutritionally-dense green onions (Rouphael et al., 2012). They also looked at lettuce aimed to compare the lettuce production system in soil-based agriculture and hydroponics. The researchers found that while lettuce grown in hydroponic systems had a higher yield, the soil-based agriculture produced higher quality lettuce. This higher quality was clear whether we measure the nutrients, taste, or even color. Another study aimed to compare the lettuce production system in soil-based agriculture and hydroponics. The researchers found that while lettuce grown in hydroponic systems had a higher yield, the soil-based agriculture produced higher quality lettuce. This higher quality was evident in the nutrient content, taste, and even color (Gichuhi et al., 2017). But soil-based agriculture isn't just about producing healthier and more flavorful crops. It also has several other benefits. For one, it is a more environmentally sustainable option than hydroponics. Soil-based agriculture does not require the use of energy-intensive systems, such as artificial lighting or climate control, and also avoids the waste associated with hydroponic systems (Barbosa et al., 2015). It is clear there should be a place for soil-based systems in the future of vertical farming. Garden Stack's unique olla irrigation technology offers comparable advantages to hydroponics (water efficiency, automation, space-saving, etc.), with simultaneously diminished disease risk and greater ease of use. To learn about Garden Stack in one minute, click here. Sources: Barbosa, G. L., Gadelha, F. D. A., Kublik, N., Proctor, A., Reichelm, L., Weissinger, E., ... & Halden, R. U. (2015). Comparison of land, water, and energy requirements of lettuce grown using hydroponic vs. conventional agricultural methods. International journal of environmental research and public health, 12(6), 6879-6891. Gichuhi, P. N., Omayio, D. G., Mwangi, M., & Ombwara, F. K. (2017). Comparative Study of Nutrient Content in Imported and Locally Produced Lettuce and Cabbages from Selected Supermarkets in Nairobi, Kenya. Journal of Food Quality, 2017. Rouphael, Y., Colla, G., Giordano, M., El-Nakhel, C., Kyriacou, M. C., & De Pascale, S. (2012). Yield, mineral composition, water relations, and water use efficiency of grafted mini-watermelon plants under deficit irrigation. HortScience, 47(5), 611-617.

Vertical Farming is the future, but which form should it take? Hydroponics has gained popularity as a way to grow plants in a controlled environment. However, research suggests that soil-based agriculture is a better option for growing healthy and nutrient-rich crops. Let's explore Five Big Reasons to back soil-based agriculture over hydroponics. Nutrient Density: Several studies have found that soil-based agriculture produces crops with higher nutrient density than hydroponics. In one study, researchers found that soil-grown strawberries had significantly higher levels of antioxidants and other important nutrients than hydroponically-grown strawberries (Olsson et al., 2004). Environmental Impact: Soil-based agriculture is a more environmentally sustainable option than hydroponics. Soil-based agriculture does not require the use of energy-intensive systems, such as artificial lighting or climate control, and also avoids the waste associated with hydroponic systems (Barbosa et al., 2015). Microbial Diversity: Soil-based agriculture has been shown to have a greater diversity of beneficial microbes, which can improve soil health and plant growth. In one study, researchers found that soil-based agriculture had significantly higher levels of microbial diversity than hydroponics, which had a relatively low number of beneficial microbes (Hartmann et al., 2009). Disease Resistance: Soil-based agriculture has been shown to be more resistant to disease and pests than hydroponics. In one study, researchers found that soil-based agriculture had a lower incidence of plant disease than hydroponics, which was attributed to the presence of beneficial microbes in the soil (López-Gálvez et al., 2017). Nutrient Cycling: Soil-based agriculture allows for the cycling of nutrients and organic matter back into the soil, which can improve plant health and reduce the need for synthetic fertilizers. With so much research suggesting that soil-based agriculture is a great option for growing healthy and nutrient-rich crops, there is a lack of soil-based vertical farming solutions. The diversity of beneficial microbes, disease resistance, and nutrient cycling associated with soil-based agriculture create a more sustainable and resilient agricultural system. While hydroponics may be useful in certain contexts, it is clear that soil-based agriculture is under-utilized in forward-looking vertical farming solutions. To learn more about our soil-based vertical farming solution, click here. Sources: Barbosa, G. L., Gadelha, F. D. A., Kublik, N., Proctor, A., Reichelm, L., Weissinger, E., ... & Halden, R. U. (2015). Comparison of land, water, and energy requirements of lettuce grown using hydroponic vs. conventional agricultural methods. International journal of environmental research and public health, 12(6), 6879-6891. Hartmann, M., Frey, B., Mayer, J., Mäder, P., & Widmer, F. (2009). Distinct soil microbial diversity under long-term organic and conventional farming. The ISME Journal, 3(5), 567-576. López-Gálvez, F., Gil, M. I., & Allende, A. (2017). Impact of relative humidity, inoculum carrier and size, and native microbiota on Salmonella ser. Typhimurium survival in baby lettuce. Food microbiology, 63, 179-185. Olsson, M. E., Gustavsson, K. E., & Vågen, I. M. (2004). Antioxidant levels and inhibition of cancer cell proliferation in vitro by extracts from organically and conventionally cultivated strawberries. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 52(5), 1248-1255.

Hydroponic farming has been growing in popularity in recent years, but scientific studies shed light on the potential risks associated with this form of farming. In a study conducted by Burch et al. (2018), the microbiological hazards of hydroponic products and systems were examined, and the results were eye-opening. The study found that hydroponic systems have an increased risk of pathogen outbreaks, compared to traditional soil-based farming. This is due to the fact that hydroponic systems are reliant on water to deliver nutrients to the plants, creating an environment where harmful bacteria can thrive. Pathogens like Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria are some of the most commonly found contaminants in hydroponic systems. While hydroponic systems do sometimes offer higher yields, it is important to recognize the potential risks associated with this form of farming. If proper sanitation and maintenance practices are not followed, the risk of pathogen contamination can increase significantly. It is clear that the presence of soil can improve plant health. A study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, researchers found that soil-grown strawberries had significantly higher levels of antioxidants and other important nutrients compared to hydroponically-grown strawberries (Olsson et al., 2004). Soil-based agriculture has been shown to have a greater diversity of beneficial microbes, which can improve soil health and plant growth (Fernández-González et al., 2019). These findings highlight the importance of soil health in producing nutrient-rich crops and promoting human health. At Garden Stack, we believe in the benefits of soil-based farming, and our innovative olla irrigation system is designed to provide a simple and effective way to water your plants. By using our system, you can rest assured that your plants are getting the water they need, without the risk of pathogen contamination associated with hydroponic systems. There is no learning curve or risk with Garden Stack. It's the same principle as a plant pot, but with automated irrigation. While hydroponic farming may seem like an attractive option, it is important to recognize the potential risks associated with this form of farming. In particular, it might not be as well suited as other solutions when it comes to small scale, carefree home farming. If you're looking for a carefree and effective way to grow your plants from home, soil-based farming is the way to go. Sources: Burch, T. R., Gundersen, S. R., Machado, E. B., & Williams, R. C. (2018). A Review of the Microbiological Hazards of Hydroponic Products and Systems. Journal of Food Protection, 81(9), 1446-1458. Fernández-González, A. J., Cardinale, M., Clipson, N., & Doyle, E. (2019). Effects of hydroponic and soil-based cultivation on microbial diversity and community composition in lettuce. Microbial Ecology, 77(4), 928-939. Olsson, M. E., Gustavsson, K. E., & Vågen, I. M. (2004). Antioxidant levels and inhibition of cancer cell proliferation in vitro by extracts from organically and conventionally cultivated strawberries. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 52(5), 1248-1255.

Have you ever felt happier after spending time in your garden or working with soil? Well, it turns out there might be a scientific reason for that. Research has shown that certain soil microbes can have an antidepressant effect on the brain (Lowry et al., 2007). One particular microbe, Mycobacterium vaccae, has been found to stimulate the release of serotonin, a hormone that regulates mood, appetite, and sleep (Matthews & Jenks, 2013). Serotonin is a key component of many antidepressant medications, which means that spending time in your garden could have similar mood-boosting effects. In addition, a study published in the journal Neuroscience found that mice exposed to soil microbes exhibited increased levels of a brain-derived neurotrophic factor, a protein that plays a key role in learning and memory (Lowry et al., 2017). The mice also showed decreased levels of inflammation and anxiety, suggesting that exposure to soil microbes could have a positive impact on mental health. Aside from these mood-enhancing effects, exposure to soil microbes has been linked to other health benefits. For instance, research has shown that children exposed to soil microbes have a lower risk of developing asthma and allergies (Rook, 2013). To incorporate these mood-boosting soil microbes into your gardening routine, consider using compost and organic soil amendments, which can help promote the growth of beneficial soil microbes. You can also try incorporating cover crops or companion planting, which can help improve soil health and diversity. Another option is to use Garden Stack, our innovative gardening appliance that makes it easy to grow with soil at home, without any of the hassle. Garden Stack utilizes olla irrigation technology, which helps promote soil health and moisture retention while being fully automatic. By using Garden Stack, you can create a healthy soil environment that is conducive to the growth of mood-boosting soil microbes. In conclusion, there are surprising links between soil health, mental well-being, and overall health. By incorporating mood-boosting soil microbes into your gardening routine, you can reap the benefits of a happier, healthier life. Sources: Lowry, C. A., Smith, D. G., & Siebler, P. H. (2007). Identification of an immune-responsive mesolimbocortical serotonergic system: potential role in regulation of emotional behavior. Neuroscience, 146(2), 756-772. Matthews, D. M., & Jenks, S. M. (2013). Ingestion of Mycobacterium vaccae decreases anxiety-related behavior and improves learning in mice. Behavioral Processes, 96, 27-35. Lowry, C. A., Hollis, J. H., de Vries, A., Pan, B., Brunet, L. R., Hunt, J. R., ... & Fleshner, M. (2017). Identification of an immune-responsive mesolimbocortical serotonergic system: potential role in regulation of emotional behavior. Neuroscience, 348, 66-79. Rook, G. A. (2013). Regulation of the immune system by biodiversity from the natural environment: an ecosystem service essential to health. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 110(46), 18360-18367.