A container farm is a modern farming method that involves growing plants inside modified storage/shipping containers. Essentially, the container protects a controlled environment where plants can grow. Container farms usually need a couple of tools to make sure the plants survive as they won’t have access to natural light, namely:

• Specialized lighting
• Precise irrigation systems
• Climate control devices
• And more!

Many people are turning to container farms because of year-round cultivation, regardless of the outside weather or location. You also don’t need permission to place a storage container on your land since it is a temporary structure. However, is it right for you? Keep reading to find out more.

Components of a Container Farm

Not every container farm is the same, however, there are some key components that almost every one needs.

Storage/Shipping Container: Containers, which are often recycled shipping containers, are chosen for their size, durability, and mobility. They are modified to provide ideal conditions for plant growth.

Shelving: You’ll need shelving to house multiple plants and make the most use of the space. This helps you to make your container farm as efficient as possible.

Climate Control Systems: To provide an ideal plant environment, container farms require precise temperature, humidity, and ventilation management. Most container farms have heating, cooling, and ventilation systems are usually needed as well.

Lighting and Irrigation Systems: These containers require lighting systems and irrigation to replicate traditional sunlight and rainwater. These systems can be automated and manual. Most likely you’ll need plumbing and a water reservoir. This does include electrical hookups as well.

Nutrient Delivery System: Container units use a variety of planting tools, such as hydroponics or aeroponics, to sustain plant growth in the absence of soil. Nutrient solutions are provided to the plants directly, fostering healthy development.

Monitoring and Automation Tools: Automation technologies automate tasks like irrigation, lighting, and climate control for optimal efficiency. This makes it easy to track how all of your plants are doing and ensures a controlled environment even when you are away.

To read more about growth stages, check out this helpful guide here article here.

Future Potential and Challenges

While container farming isn't exactly a new phenomenon, there are always new developments and challenges when using this method of farming. Some things you should keep in mind, include:

Emerging Trends and Innovations: 

Automation and AI are key components of container farming going forward. With more innovations, it may be much easier to monitor your crop. For the time being, stay up to date with the latest technology in container farming.

Challenges:

While container farms offer a ton of benefits, there are some drawbacks to consider. Here are a couple to consider:

• Initial setup costs
• Environmental monitoring often takes more effort than initially thought
• Some storage containers have chemicals in them that can't be easily dedicated
• Repurposed containers may contain rust and be structurally unsound after several uses
• Plant produce may not be as high as traditional farms.

If you'd like to get into the weeds of the downsides of container farming (see what I did there), you can check out this fantastic guide here.

Need a Container?

Do you need a storage container for your container farm? 360Connect is your guy! Just fill out our 1–2-minute form and we'll contact you to verify your information. From there, you can relax as up to 5 different suppliers of containers reach out to you! That's it!