I have been wanting to get into agriculture for a long time. Finally the time has come and for last few months I have been updating myself with the latest in the field. With over 12+ yrs of corporate experience, I think a business like approach with adequate backup plans is what the need of the day is. I have almost zeroed in on growing Stevia as a main crop with backup plan of Dairy farming and vegetable crops. Just when I thought I was ready, I bumped into Hydroponic farming… now if effectively used, this method reduces the space requirement to almost 20-25% of the original requirement. This means lower investment and bigger space for alternative options (maybe a small training center for other farmers on the modern methods of farming or even an evening school…) for this to happen I need your help…
I would like some suggestions if stevia can be grown hydroponically and would really appreciate some guidance on it. I’m ready to pay consultancy fee and travel if required.
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Nithin
Mod note: Our guess is that you meant hydroponics, corrected.
Thank you Sir Mr.Nithin for your Innovative thought, It is Possible,
When Flower Crops like Roses,Gerbera, Coronation are growing why not Stevia. More over quality Stevia Can be Produced because we can Provide all the Fertigation with Micro Nutrients.Please go through the following Links which will Help you and keep me update your Project from time to time.
Since there has not been any response other than you; I have a feeling not many have tried this method. Since I’m just a start up and cannot afford to invest into something which is not tried (considering the risks) I think I will try it out on my roof first before going full fledged in the farm.
Waiting to set up my roof farm tomorrow. This weekend will be hydroponic setup weekend
Well Mr. Nithin if you have well conversant with Hydroponic you can go ahead without any hesitation initially for 200 Mtrs. Other wise you go far Planting on Roof Garden. You can get results in a Short Span of SIX Months.Then you can go for in a Large scale.
MANNE.SN,
9133498366
Good luck with your rooftop farm pilot / prototype.
BTW I am another enthusiast just like you (looking to make a start). I have been advised its best to let the consultant study the local market, soil and weather conditions and then recommend what to grow. But Manne is an expert and if he says its ok to start with Stevia… why not!
Do post pics, we would love to see how you are getting along.
I met an expert in stevia cultivation during my Kisan Expo in Bangalore. According to him, sunlight is very very essential for stevia cultivation. So, I have concluded that it is not a good idea to go for stevia in hydroponics method. Planning to go ahead with it in farm in march/april I will keep you posted on the developments.
thank you sir,
not necessary to go for Hydroponic in Poly House/Shadenet. As well you can have this method in the open field too. vasudhagreenfarms@gmail.com
09133498366