As Populations around the world fast grows, agricultural lands shrink. The world is becoming predominately urban and experts estimate that the importance of urban agriculture will increase as a source of fresh and healthy produce for the population in crowded cities. Intensive urban agriculture, using advanced fertilization technologies or hydroponics, will become more and more important source of fresh produce in city centers. However, a sustainable urban farming will require proper management of two main resources that are in short supply in cities: Land and energy.
Proper management will require a framework (4R Nutrient Stewardship) to achieve cropping system goals, such as increased production, increased farmer profitability, enhanced environmental protection and improved sustainability.
The 4R nutrient principles specify:
Right fertilizer source at the Right rate, at the Right time and in the Right place.
Haifa Group advanced Controlled release fertilizers were tailored for those matters, as they delay the nutrient availability to the plant longer, making sure the plant gets the right amount of nutrients needed in the right rate and time.
The controlled release fertilizers are highly suitable for urban agriculture projects in densely populated neighborhoods in the centers of large cities
By allowing optimal use of the soil to produce more food while saving valuable soil. In addition, the soluble fertilizers - controlled released fertilizers (CRF) are highly suitable for urban agriculture in small gardens and hydroponic systems in courtyards, roofs, etc.
You can find more information about the uses of Haifa fertilizers in urban agriculture in the fascinating presentation of Michael Koch, Haifa's agronomist in South Africa:
Presentation
