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FODDER FARMS
While hydroponic farms are predominantly viewed as a way to sustainably grow fruits & vegetables, the technology can also be used to reduce the environmental impact of beef and dairy production.
Hydroponic fodder farms present a highly productive and efficient way to grow animal feed using a fraction of the water and land otherwise used in conventional farming.
ADVANTAGES
Use of water
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By applying water directly to the root of the plants and recycling the water several times, water wasted is significantly reduced
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On average, 1.5-2 liters of water are needed to produce 1kg of green fodder hydroponically, in comparison with up to 160 liters required to grow grass under field conditions.
Yield
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The use of hydroponics accelerates fodder production by as much as 25%
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Plants mature faster and more evenly under a hydroponic system than a conventional soil based system
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One kg of un-sprouted seed yields 6-7kg green forage in 7-8 days
Size
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Hydroponic fodder containers can produce up to 1,000kg of barley or maize fodder within 7-8 days, in only 29m2
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In conventional farming, one hectare of land would be required to achieve a similar yield
Nutrition
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While dry matter content is slightly reduced depending on grain type, hydroponic fodder is richer in crude protein, fibre, ether extract, vitamins and minerals
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Hydroponic fodder feeding has been proven to improve milk yield and composition of dairy cows through increased intake and digestibility of nutrients
Left: Dairy cows feeding hydroponic fodder. Green fodder of barley, corn, as well as alfalfa and Rhodes grass are also suitable for horse, goats, and beef cattle.
Right: Hydroponic fodder farms are fairly inexpensive to set up and can grow large quantities of fodder in small spaces using vertical layers.
