Sustainability And Vertical/Urban Farming
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Address:
Delmas Campus
Plot IR 202 Leeupoort road, Delmas, Mpumalanga
Pretoria Support Office
Plot 146, Luiperd Street, Tierpoort Pretoria East, Gauteng
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Phone:
Delmas: (+27) 10 001 4320
Pretoria: (+27) 12 811 7310
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Email:
info@buhle.org.za
Sustainability And Vertical/Urban Farming
This training provides a comprehensive introduction to vertical farming, an innovative and sustainable method of growing crops in vertically stacked layers or controlled indoor environments. Participants will learn the principles of soilless agriculture, including hydroponics, aeroponics, and aquaponics, as well as the use of artificial lighting, climate control systems, and smart technologies to optimize plant growth. The course covers crop selection, nutrient management, water efficiency, and pest control within vertical systems, along with practical setup and maintenance guidance. Ideal for aspiring urban farmers, agri-entrepreneurs, and educators, the training aims to equip learners with the knowledge and skills to implement and manage vertical farming operations for increased food production and environmental sustainability.
Challenges & Solutions
Vertical and urban farming brings unique operational and environmental challenges. This section outlines the most common issues and practical solutions used in modern controlled‑environment agriculture (CEA).
Key Challenges
Areas that typically limit yield and efficiency:
Energy & Lighting Efficiency (PPFD/DLI, photoperiod, heat load)
Space Optimisation & Workflow in Multi‑tier Racks
Water Recycling, Filtration & Biosecurity
Climate Control (Temperature, RH, VPD) & Microclimates
Pest & Disease Management in Indoor Systems (IPM)
Practical Solutions
Techniques you will apply in this course:
LED strategy with DLI planning, dimming schedules & energy budgeting
Modular rack layouts, lean paths & ergonomic harvest/pack flows
Recirculating hydroponics, UV/ozone treatment & sanitation SOPs
Sensor‑driven HVAC setpoints, airflow mapping & dehumidification
CEA‑specific IPM: monitoring, biologicals, screening & exclusion
Learning Outcomes
After completing this course, you will be able to:
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Design a vertical/urban farm layout (site, rack density, workflow) for target crops.
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Select suitable crops & cultivars and match them to NFT, DWC or drip systems.
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Formulate and manage nutrient solutions (EC/pH targets, scheduling, monitoring).
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Plan lighting (PPFD/DLI), photoperiods and estimate energy use per kg produced.
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Implement climate strategies (temperature, RH, VPD) and log data for optimisation.
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Establish water recycling, filtration and hygiene protocols to maintain biosecurity.
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Develop a CEA‑specific IPM plan to prevent and manage pests & diseases.
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Calculate basic unit economics (yield/m², kg/kWh, cost per kg) to assess viability.
Build the skills to launch or improve a sustainable vertical/urban farming operation.
