Hydroponic farming: How Meru farmers are reaping millions

John Mwendia at his tomato farm in Igoji. (Photo/Silas Nyamweya)

Introduce yourself and your biz.

My name is John Paul Mwendia and I am the Chairperson of Lamwe Self-Help Group. We are from Igoji East, Imenti South, in Meru County and a registered Community Based Organisation dedicated to transforming our agricultural practices to ensure food security and improve livelihoods. Together with my colleagues, Aileen Gacheri and Rita Kathambi, we lead a passionate group of 34 smallholder farmers committed to innovative farming techniques that benefit our community here in Igoji.

How and why did you start out on hydroponic production of cherry tomatoes?

We started our hydroponic production of cherry tomatoes out of a necessity to adapt to the changing climate conditions and to maximise the use of our limited land resources. Traditional farming methods were no longer sustainable due to unpredictable weather patterns and soil degradation. Hydroponics provided a solution that not only used less water but also allowed us to grow crops in controlled environments, ensuring consistent yields.

Where did you get the skills and knowledge from?

We acquired our skills and knowledge through a combination of localised training programmes and hands-on experience offered by Vermi-Farm Initiative. They played a crucial role by offering comprehensive training sessions on hydroponic systems, crop and pest management, and sustainable farming practices. They provided us with the necessary technical know-how to set up and maintain our hydroponic systems effectively.

How has this technology improved your yields and earnings generally?

In this case, how much do you make in a good month? Hydroponic technology has significantly improved our yields by allowing us to grow cherry tomatoes in a controlled environment, free from the limitations of soil quality and weather conditions. Our yields have increased by up to 70 per cent, providing us with a consistent supply of high-quality produce. This has translated into better market prices and higher earnings for our group. Financially, we have seen a remarkable improvement.

On a good month, our earnings have increased by nearly 200 per cent compared to traditional farming methods. The consistent quality and quantity of our produce have made us a preferred supplier in the local markets, like in Nairobi, through the support of Growthponics Limited company. This stability has allowed us to reinvest in our operations and improve our infrastructure.

How are crops produced out of hydroponic farming different from those grown in normal farms?

Crops produced through hydroponic farming are notably different in several ways. First, they are grown in a soilless medium, which eliminates the risk of soil-borne diseases and pests. This results in healthier plants and higher quality produce. The controlled environment of hydroponic systems ensures optimal nutrient delivery, leading to better growth rates and higher yields.

Hydroponically grown crops also have a more consistent flavour and appearance. Since we can control the nutrient levels and growing conditions precisely, the cherry tomatoes are uniformly sized and have a richer taste compared to those grown in traditional soil. The reduced need for pesticides and herbicides makes our produce safer and more appealing to health-conscious consumers.

What are the challenges of utilising this technology in your farming practices?

One of the main challenges we face is the initial cost of setting up hydroponic systems. While the long-term benefits are substantial, the upfront investment can be daunting. It cost us Sh480,000 to set up an 8 by 30-metre size  cubicle.

Another challenge is the need for continuous monitoring and maintenance of the hydroponic systems. Unlike traditional farming, hydroponics require careful management of nutrient levels, water quality, and system components. This can be labour-intensive and a higher level of knowledge.