Geoponica Greens, a vertical farm based in Chesilhurst, is expanding its existing operations to the historic Mill One warehouse in Hamilton Township this fall, the company announced.
Desmond Hayes, founder and owner of Geoponica Greens, said the company utilizes hydroponics, an agricultural practice of growing plants without soil, using only water and nutrients — while avoiding the use of pesticides or insecticides. By delivering the nutrients straight to the plants’ roots, this grow method is also able to shorten crop cycles, produce the best flavors and level of nutrition and increase the lifespan of the crop, he said.
“Geoponica Greens is dedicated to changing the way food is both grown and realized through our low-waste model and our hyperlocal interaction within nearby areas,” Hayes said. “New Jersey is strategically located between New York City and Philadelphia, making it the perfect place to reimagine farming. We are especially excited to reach minority communities, Opportunity Zones and food deserts, and introduce our sustainable methods of agriculture to new areas.”
The new warehouse space will support Geoponica Greens’ efforts to provide fresh microgreens, leafy greens and herbs to the local communities, with plans to hire three to five employees and interns in the first year.
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