Aeroponics - A Method to Farm Faster

Oct 02, 2014

By Farms.com

Farming throughout the world is as varied as the crops grown, and the methods and techniques can very slightly or dramatically. Recently, a new method has been offered by a research team from Cambridge, Massachusetts. The team from MITs Media Lab, led by Caleb Harper, announced that “aeroponics” can deliver a faster method of crop development.

Aeroponics resembles hydroponics in that both methods remove soil in the developing process of crops. Hydroponics uses water to deliver nutrients to growing crops in order to provide nourishment. Aeroponics goes one step further and suspends crops so their roots are suspended in a fog chamber. The chamber is constantly sprayed with a mist filled with nutrients to help promote growth. The researchers also believe that limiting light access to blue and red in the light spectrum are key factors in growth. These two colors on the light spectrum give crops the ability to develop additional plant material, resulting in a fuller and developed crop. The rest of the light spectrum only functions as a heat source according to Harper.

Harper and his team believe that this method of farming contributes to crop varieties that are better developed. This is not the only benefit that Harper sees in this method of farming. This could allow local famers of thriving city populations to grow crops without large amounts of land or soil.

Farming is not limited to one style. We choose what works best for our environment. From conventionally grown to organic, hydroponic to aeroponic, the methods are many but what matters most is the end product.

MIT CityFARM provides information on projects like aeroponics developed by MIT Media Lab.

Video: Winter Service Inspections for John Deere Equipment - The FarmCast Ep64

The FarmCast, host Troy Randall speaks with Doug Luedke, Vice President of Service, and Davin Peterson, Executive Vice President of Aftermarket at 21st Century Equipment, to discuss the importance of proactive service and how it helps farmers reduce downtime during their busiest seasons. The conversation focuses on the Winter Service Inspection Program, a comprehensive approach designed to keep equipment running at peak performance and limit costly in-season breakdowns through preventative maintenance and expert technician support.

Doug and Devin explain how 21st Century Equipment’s service teams have evolved to meet the needs of today’s connected machines. With more technology and data integrated into modern equipment, technicians now play a vital role in both mechanical repairs and precision ag support. Through advanced diagnostics, machine monitoring, and John Deere’s Expert Alerts, they can identify and address potential issues before they become major problems—saving customers valuable time, money, and frustration.

Throughout the discussion, the team shares real-world success stories demonstrating how proactive inspections and customer-focused service help maximize uptime and efficiency for every operation. Whether it’s a large tractor, combine, or small mower, the goal remains the same: to provide trusted, reliable support that helps farmers and landowners stay productive and confident in their equipment year-round.