The use of vertical garden systems to increase fruit and vegetable production is the focus of a free seminar by James Coffman, president of Future Growing, LLC, Thursday, Oct. 3, from 3:30 to 5 p.m. at the West Virginia State University (WVSU) Economic Development Center (EDC). Future Growing is known worldwide for vertical food production utilizing patented Tower Garden® technology.
“Vertical gardening is ideal for people interested in urban farming, commercial production and rooftop gardens,” said WVSU Extension Specialist Melissa Stewart, who is currently using the technology through efforts targeting workplace wellness and the Farm to School initiative, which aims to connect K-12 schools with local farms to supply fresh foods to school cafeterias.
Stewart cites the system’s potential for expanding urban production methods and school-based growing given its ability to grow larger quantities of crops in a smaller space. Because of the vertical design of Tower Gardens®, they are both space and energy efficient, she said.
“We have been using Tower Garden® technology in our community, adaptive and school-based gardening initiatives for five years,” said Stewart. “We want to increase the use of this style of growing here in West Virginia as it continues to gain momentum nationwide.”
With more than 100 successful projects across North America, Future Growing leads the way in the local foods movement, which has become a permanent mainstream trend in the U.S.
Information about Future Growing, LLC, is available at futuregrowing.com.
Registration is required by calling the WVSU EDC at (304) 720-1401 or visiting www.futuregrowingseminar.eventbrite.com. The WVSU EDC is located at 1506 Kanawha Blvd. West in Charleston.
