An idea was conceived to plan and implement a horticultural project for socially disadvantaged growers in urban and periurban area in Memphis, in collaboration with University of Memphis. Since land is a limiting factor, hydroponics crop production system was found to be the best alternative to be introduced. First, growers were trained on the theoretical aspect of cultural practices involved in hydroponics, emphasizing the challenges involved in the system. A total of three training sessions on hydroponic cropping system were conducted in collaboration with the University of Memphis faculty members to train the trainers, growers, school teachers and students. A total of 20 trainers and growers were trained at each session on hydroponic production system of lettuce and squash. Seedlings were provided in setting-up the hydroponic system. The implementation of the project was closely monitored through email, telephone conversation and site visits. Squash flowers were sold to high end markets at $0.60 per flower. A weekly income of $70 to $80 was generated from this project. The trainers and growers have gained knowledge and confidence in implementing the project in the coming season; similar projects are being planned. Lessons learned through implementing the project, the dos’ and don’ts, will help implement the projects successfully.

Urban and Peri-Urban Hydroponics Crop Production: Project for the Socially Disadvantaged Growers

Dharma Pitchay*1, Joseph Loeb2 and Steven Kennedy1 1Dept. of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, College of Agriculture, Human and Natural Sciences, Tennessee State University, 3500 John A. Merritt Blvd. Nashville, TN 37209, 2University of Memphis, Dept. of Biology, Memphis, Tennessee Contact info: dpitchay@tnstate.edu ; Tel: 615 963-4890

The authors wish to acknowledge USDA for funding this project

Explaining the theoretical component of hydroponic production system with excellent images. This was convincing and motivating to the project participants.

Providing individual attention and explaining the details on a one-to-one basis to clear any doubt and to avoid any costly mistakes during the implementation of the project.

Every aspect of the planning, managing, monitoring of the production system, and marketing should be emphasized, and its significance highlighted in the supply chain.

Ongoing training program: 3rd module, focusing on cleanliness and sanitation to eradicate powdery mildew through cultural practices. Keeping pesticides away to ensure food safety, sustainable environment and keeping new and young growers away from pesticide addiction.

The trust and commitment could gain the support and assurance of high-end chef who is committed to buying the squash blossoms.

Generally, squash is grown to produce squash fruits. Only female flowers set fruits. Male flowers are considered sink with no value to the grower and to the plant.

Crop maintenance, scouting for pest and disease, diagnosing nutrient deficiency, and the corrective measures to be taken was taught when we encountered iron deficiency symptoms (interveinal chlorosis of young leaves) and powdery mildew.

School going children also participated in the program. It turned out to be a healthy activity spending quality time with the trainers and acquiring knowledge in plant science through interactions and participation. A path to train future horticultural entrepreneurs.

They are left to fall off the plants. However, in this case, male squash blossoms were transformed into a delicacy (as shown in the picture) with the magic touch of a high-end restaurant chef. The displayed dish is in the menu, prized at $ 9.99. Growers participated in this program had an added bonus of flower sale in addition to the fruits.

This project was a success mainly due to strong partnership, collaboration, coordination, and the leadership and commitment of Mr. Joseph Loeb.

Everyone got excited when the squash seedling plants were brought to the classroom. It helped us to keep the momentum going at the right direction. At this training session, seedling establishment and transplanting was taught.

We took the opportunity to train trainers on the importance of monitoring and managing pH and EC of the nutrient solution by taking readings on a daily basis and making the necessary pH adjustment and fertilizer application.

Our training was successful - judging from the healthy squash plants grown by the growers after 3 weeks of planting. This indicates that the growers understood the challenges of growing crops hydroponically and have followed the protocols well.

Squash blossoms Male flower

Female flower