​Vendors NOT Attending 7/29/23
Forage and Bloom 
Greenbriar Gardens
Little Diamds
Magic Worm Ranch

I asked several of our local farmers to talk about the struggles they are having in this heat this year and how they find workable solutions to continue to grow healthy produce for their families and yours. This time of year our hydroponic and aquaponic farmers really struggle to keep their crops alive in this heat. 

Here is a recent video from TX US Farms on their struggle growing nutrient rich produce through their aquaponic system.

From TX US Farms via Facebook: 
We’ve lost at least 4 weeks of lettuce and anything else in the DWC system. It makes me so sad, it’s so empty!!
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We’ve been working hard to figure out why we have no roots, we’ve had water tested by A&M and everything is perfect, turned chiller down in case it was heat related, and now draining the DWC just in case there is something eating the roots. Hopefully this resolves it, if not, more brainstorming….

As the Houston area continues to grow, the demand for locally grown produce is also increasing. Local farmers are facing a number of challenges, but they are also finding innovative ways to overcome these challenges.

One of the biggest challenges facing local farmers is the heat. Houston is a hot city, and that can make it difficult to grow some crops. However, local farmers are finding ways to adapt to the heat. They are using shade cloth, drip irrigation, and other technologies to help their crops thrive.

Another challenge facing local farmers is the cost of land. Land prices in Houston are rising, which makes it difficult for farmers to find affordable land. However, some farmers are finding ways to lease land from other businesses or organizations.

The demand for locally grown produce is increasing, and local farmers are finding ways to meet that demand. With innovation and hard work, local farmers will continue to play an important role in the Houston community.

Tips for Overcoming the Challenges of Growing Produce in Houston
The Houston heat is a challenge for many local farmers, but there are a number of ways to overcome the challenges. Here are a few tips:

• Choose heat-tolerant varieties of crops.
• Plant at the right time of year.
• Water regularly, especially during hot weather.
• Mulch around plants to help retain moisture.
• Use shade cloth to protect plants from the sun.
• Install a drip irrigation system.