SJCM Young Leaders have a busy week

SJCM Young Leaders have had a busy week, as they have set up a second hydroponics table and planted more vegetables. This week also saw the preparation for the final phase of their project, which is to invite in farmers, sponsors, and schools to view the set up and learn more about hydroponics.{{more}}

Hydroponics is growing plants without soil, in a nutrient solution. It is an efficient way to grow plants as it recycles water and it gives the plants the nutrition that they need. Therefore, the plants grow faster. The roots are submersed in a growing medium which is filtrated by a nutrient solution. Since the roots are directly given the nutrients the plant needs, it is not using energy to seek nutrients. It is using energy to grow. Hydroponics produces larger produce in a shorter time period.

The growing medium can vary as well; SJCM is using coconut fiber. There are also various methods of hydroponics. Nutrient Film Technique (N-F-T) is a popular method where the roots are exposed to flowing water, which will also stimulate growth. Another method is where the roots are submersed completely, but oxygen is pumped through the nutrient solution. SJCM is using NFT method to grow lettuce and celery.

In addition to the hydroponics component of the project, the Young Leaders were to conserve water. One assignment was to try to save water at home: their water bills were recorded in the beginning and now, as the project is closing, they are to recheck the bills. Here is one students’ story:

“I told my mother that part of project was to conserve water in our home and there were some things we needed to do. So my family and I started to conserve water by spending less time in the bath, and making sure all taps are turned off properly. We started using just the amount of water we needed at the time like when making tea, cooking and washing dishes. We also used the water from our tank to scrub our shoes and bags. We washed our clothes in bundles rather than everyone washing their own. By doing these things we were able to conserve a lot of water. Our water bill went from $127.79 to $47.34. So with conserving water you can save money and this can help you to have a better future.” [Shatica Cambridge Form 4]

The project will soon come to an end, but the hydroponics will continue as part of the agricultural science program at St. Joseph’s Convent Marriaqua. This makes our project both practical and sustainable. St. Joseph’s Convent Marriaqua is having an open house where interested parties can come to view the project and learn more about hydroponics today from 9:30 am to 2:30pm. Those interested can contact the Young Leaders at sjcmyoungleaders@hotmail.com or call the school for more information.