Urban Farming

URBAN FARMING

In a world of technological advancements, rapid population growth and instant developments, space is becoming a limited factor. In the year 2010 a research showed that over 3.5 million kilometers of the earth is occupied by urban development. Over the years this number has definitely increased to an estimate of over 4 million kilometers. Food security is vital living in a world with such rampant development rate. This is because lands turn from being where food is grown and animals kept to where factories and industries rise.

To help mitigate this conundrum, Ruben Centre has come up with a new farming technology that sees to it space is utilized in areas space is limited. Our urban farming center can be said to be a pilot project but it has picked up great. We host animals and grow crops as well. Recycling, reusing and reducing methods are key conservatory methods in this project. For example the self-sustaining fish plant whereby a chicken coop is above a catfish tank and below a small crop garden. Water from the fish tank is used to water the crops above; the crops are for feeding the fish and the chicken manure drops into the tank to feed the catfish. This system is therefore self-sustainable.

From the rabbits being kept, we collect the urine (which has high urea that is good for the crops) and the dung that is rich in nitrogen and phosphorus, nutrients that plants need for healthy growth. The rabbits are also sold to customers who can keep them as pets and also their meat is an excellent source of vitamins, minerals and trace elements: High in vitamins B3 and B12, phosphorus, potassium and selenium. It contributes to a good balance of vitamins and minerals for daily dietary requirements.

Other animals kept in the garden include doves, ducks and chickens. The various crops grown include kales, onions and arrow roots; just to mention a few. As for the crops, recycling of old water containers to grow them in is popular. Another inventive method of utilizing is using the spiral and staircase models. This is whereby structures are built in a stylish way that still utilizes space to plant crops on. The urban farm at Ruben Centre has garnered much popularity including the state department Ministry of Agriculture. It is highly recommended that one pays a visit to this sanctuary so as to witness the brilliance of farming.