Hello, everyone! Welcome to my blog focused on hydroponics and soil-less farming. Today, we are coming to you from Gemis, a small town in the Çardak district of Denizli. We are thrilled to share the completion of a 30-square-meter experimental greenhouse project, designed to showcase the potential of modern farming techniques.
Greenhouse Setup Overview
Our journey began with meticulous preparation of the structure. The ground was fully covered with a high-quality polyethylene film to ensure proper insulation and protection against external elements. This film prevents moisture loss, controls temperature fluctuations, and acts as a barrier against weeds and pests. The front and back entrances were secured with durable clips, ensuring easy access while maintaining the integrity of the environment. Additionally, we installed a water tank, which has been carefully positioned, filled, and primed with the appropriate nutrient solutions for optimal plant growth.
Water and Pumping System
A reliable irrigation system is the backbone of any hydroponic setup. For this greenhouse, we incorporated a pump system that includes a return pipe to handle any excess water. While it currently isn’t in use, the system is designed to adapt to future needs. The flow of water can be finely adjusted using a valve, which redirects surplus back into the tank, maintaining a balanced cycle. The irrigation setup includes:
An electric timer that automates the watering schedule, saving time and ensuring consistency.
A network of distribution pipes branching into five rows on both sides, with two additional pipes positioned at the top for specialized lettuce cultivation.
This system ensures that water and nutrients are evenly distributed, minimizing waste and maximizing efficiency.
Planting and Capacity
The greenhouse has been designed specifically for lettuce cultivation. The seedlings are spaced approximately 5 cm apart to promote healthy growth while maximizing the use of available space. With a total capacity of 384 plants, we initially planted 370 seedlings due to minor losses during shipping. On each side of the greenhouse, we utilized a strategic combination of 70 mm and 100 mm pipes, ensuring optimal airflow and light penetration.
In preparation for summer cultivation, when lettuce tends to bolt, we’ve implemented a flexible system to grow cucumbers. By selectively closing some pipes and redirecting resources, we can prevent downtime and keep the greenhouse operational year-round.
Nutrients and Costs
We chose the "Anadolu Selçuklu" variety of lettuce for its resilience and market appeal. Each seedling costs approximately 90 kuruş, including shipping. For irrigation, we rely on a 300-watt, half-horsepower pump that operates 3-4 hours daily, consuming around 60 TL worth of electricity per month. Nutrient costs for the entire cycle are approximately 200 TL, bringing the total cost per head of lettuce to around 1.80 TL.
Revenue Potential
This project isn’t just about experimentation; it’s about demonstrating profitability. The local market price for lettuce ranges between 7.5 TL and 10 TL per head, offering a profit margin of 5-8 TL per lettuce. For a single cycle, this translates to an income of 2,000-2,500 TL, showcasing the financial viability of small-scale hydroponic farming.
Structural Details
Our greenhouse stands as a testament to quality construction and thoughtful design. Key features include:
A polyethylene film with a thickness of 350 microns, rated for 36 months of durability.
A sturdy frame made from 27 mm steel pipes, anchored with 32 mm pipes buried 50 cm into the ground for enhanced stability.
Crossbars measuring 21 mm add structural reinforcement, while the benches, crafted from 25x25 mm square-profile steel, are painted white for added durability and aesthetic appeal. The legs of these benches are embedded in concrete to ensure they remain secure and immovable.
Maintenance and Adjustments
To maintain the system’s efficiency, we installed drip irrigation pipes with a diameter of 20 mm. These pipes are not only economical but also easy to replace. The pipe ends feature valves that facilitate the flushing out of debris, a critical step in preventing blockages. Minor leaks identified during the setup phase will be addressed promptly to ensure optimal performance. Regular maintenance routines will involve checking the integrity of the system, cleaning the pipes, and adjusting nutrient levels as needed.
Environmental Benefits and Sustainability
Hydroponic farming represents a significant step toward sustainable agriculture. This system uses 90% less water compared to traditional farming, making it an ideal solution in regions facing water scarcity. Additionally, the absence of soil reduces the risk of soil-borne diseases and eliminates the need for chemical pesticides. The controlled environment within the greenhouse allows for year-round cultivation, reducing dependency on seasonal cycles and contributing to consistent food supply chains.
Scaling Opportunities
While this project focuses on a 30-square-meter greenhouse, the principles and techniques can be scaled to larger operations. Farmers and entrepreneurs can adapt this model to suit their specific needs, whether it’s expanding the cultivation area or diversifying crops. With the right investments in automation and technology, the potential for hydroponics to revolutionize agriculture is immense.
Summary and Future Updates
This experimental greenhouse project serves as a practical demonstration of the potential of hydroponics. By combining innovative design, efficient resource use, and strategic planning, we’ve created a sustainable and profitable farming model. We’re committed to sharing updates and insights from this project, including challenges, solutions, and future expansions.
Thank you for joining us on this journey. Stay tuned for more content, and feel free to reach out with your questions and feedback. Together, let’s explore the future of farming!
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