Western Daily Press (Saturday)
Indoor farming company strikes deal with US manufacturer
A BRISTOL farming company that uses a hi-tech system to grow produce indoors without soil has struck a deal with a US greenhouse equipment manufacturer.
LettUs Grow, which was founded by three University of Bristol graduates in 2015, has partnered with Innovative Growers Equipment (IGE) to introduce ultrasonic aeroponics to greenhouse growers across the US and Canada.
Through the partnership, IGE will manufacture LettUs Grow’s patented ultrasonic irrigation systems.
“We are thrilled to join forces with IGE to bring our advanced aeroponic technology to growers across North
America,” said Charlie Guy, chief executive of LettUs Grow.
“This partnership marks a significant step forward in our mission to reduce the impact of growing fresh produce worldwide, by supporting growers and improving food security through meaningful collaborations.”
LettUs Grow is aiming to cut food waste and the carbon footprint of fresh produce by reducing water and fertiliser usage in agriculture.
It recently carried out crop growth trials at Wageningen University in the Netherlands and at Stockbridge Technology Centre, in North Yorkshire, in collaboration with tech partner Crop Health and Protection.
According to the company, its aeroponic technology – where produce is suspended in air using a mist to deliver nutrients – was shown to improve yields and growth rates compared to hydroponic irrigation methods – where plants are suspended in water – for a range of leafy greens and herbs.
The partnership will start in the US in June.
The technology will then be used to conduct crop trials unique to the North American market, as well as conventional crops with international market demand.