HYDROPONICS

The system fell into disrepair in early 2024 after the original members left the shed due to a number of factors, including ill health. New members took up the challenge to reinvigorate the hydroponics but with no previous experience they sought advice from the owner of Lighthouse Hydroponics who assisted with planning of the various systems. At the same time the Shed Executive decided that it was time for a relocation of the hydroponics facility to make way for a bandstand. The decision was taken to construct a purpose built structure, rather than attempt  to relocate the existing building.

As planning and building got under way, there was significant support from a wide range of enthusiastic and skilled shed members. The build team were able to make use of timber which was available on the site. The paving in the shed was also acquired without cost. The building was covered with solar weave which is designed to let light into the shed, necessary to promote growth, while excluding wind and rain. Ventilation was installed into the upper parts of the building to promote five changes of air per hour. This has been enhanced by the installation of a fan. The decision was made to provide electricity to the building to provide power to the pumps, fans and potentially grow lights. The onsite Electricians advised on electrical components and completed all the electrical installation.

Forty eight metres of grow trays have been installed in the building which will facilitate the growing of some 135 plants. The 48 metres of trays are divided into 2 systems, one system growing leafy greens, (examples being watercress, kale, boy choy, salad lettuce, spinach, parsley, butterhead lettuce.)  The second system will grow vegetables, (examples being varieties of tomatoes, cucumbers and capisums). The two systems are necessary because of the different nutrients and water demands of leafy greens and vegetables. As an example, the water requirements of vegetables mean that the grow trays must be of a larger size. The water is pumped through the systems on a 24 hour cycle, with water being pumped for 30 minutes followed by a period of 30 minutes to allow the roots of the plants to dry and absorb oxygen. Important to the growth of the plants is having sunlight over significant parts of the day. Where systems do not have sufficient sunlight, grow lights are installed, and these maybe necessary in the new building as experienced is gained. 

It is planned that various vegetables will be grown all year round which will be made available to members of the shed. (There may be a rest period over the hot summer months?) There is the potential in optimal conditions to grow 300 kgs of vegetables. In addition it is anticipated that more members will join the hydroponics team and enjoy growing vegetables. One of the benefits to date has been the comradie and teamwork that has been developed during the building process and the many skills that have been learned or have been enhanced.