Phase 2 of the Controlled Environment Hydroponic Research and Development Centre (CEHRDC) came into operation today (July 26). Phase 2 of the CEHRDC and the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) are showcasing three newly introduced hydroponic cultivation technologies as well as three crops that were successfully cultivated with controlled environment hydroponic technology.
An AFCD spokesman said, "Phase 2 of the CEHRDC has been set up to demonstrate the latest agricultural technologies to the industry and actively co-operate with local research institutes and universities. It also serves as a training venue for the industry to facilitate knowledge transfer and develop agricultural technologies, thereby enhancing the competitiveness of the industry."
The spokesman said that the three new hydroponic cultivation technologies featured in Phase 2 of the CEHRDC are the Mobile Hydroponic Cultivation System, the Aeroponic Cultivation System, and the Automated Hydroponic Cultivation System, which is a joint research and development project with the Chinese University of Hong Kong. All of these systems can make optimal use of space, reduce manpower and further enhance productivity.
The Mobile Hydroponic Cultivation System can make the best use of limited work space, which in turn increases the cultivation area and yield. By monitoring and managing various environmental parameters remotely via the remote control system of the cultivation racks, manpower can also be reduced. The Automated Hydroponic Cultivation System can carry out repetitive production procedures precisely for farm operators, thus effectively saving human resources. Farmers can schedule cultivation tasks to be carried out during non-office hours via a user-friendly task scheduling system, raising flexibility in planning production.
In addition, the rotary Aeroponic Cultivation System adopts a sprayer irrigation system so that the volume of irrigation water can be reduced and the number of grow lights can be minimised, resulting in lower electricity consumption when compared to conventional hydroponics. With a lightweight and easy-to-assemble structure, the system can be used in a limited space.
The spokesman continued, "Two kinds of vegetables and an edible flower have been successfully grown in Phase 2 of the CEHRDC recently, namely watercress, purple pak choi seedling and calendula. Watercress grows fast and three harvests can usually be made within two months, Purple pak choi seedling is a new hybrid variety, which is rich in anthocyanin and has a soft and tender texture. Calendula is rich in lutein, and can be used in desserts or scented tea. The three crops are rich in nutrients and suitable for different dishes. They are easy to grow and the harvesting can be carried out between 24 and 50 days. By using controlled environment hydroponic technology, they can be produced all year round."
To boost technical knowledge transfer and attract the young generation to join the agriculture industry, the CEHRDC launched the Hydroponic Cultivation Pilot Attachment Programme this year for the first time. The programme provides professional knowledge in operating indoor controlled environment hydroponic farms and opportunities for hands-on experience to potential investors, start-up farmers or local tertiary students who are interested in joining the hydroponic agricultural sector. For enquiries on the programme, please contact the CEHRDC at 2708 3878 or via email at cehrdc@afcd.gov.hk.
The CEHRDC was set up as a joint initiative by the AFCD and the Vegetable Marketing Organization in 2013. Through research and demonstration of advanced technology and facilities in hydroponics, the CEHRDC provides references for the trade and interested investors. CEHRDC staff also pay regular visits to different hydroponic farms to provide technical support. The CEHRDC is also proactively engaged in research and development, including selecting and testing new varieties to broaden the spectrum of local hydroponic vegetables and offer more choices to the market.
