Bronx farm grows fresh microgreens for local restaurants and businesses, keeping food in community
NEW YORK -- The Bronx is proving to be another hotspot for urban agriculture.
An organization, called "Mi Oh My Hydroponic Farms," is working to change the distance produce has to travel to reach city households. Part of the operation is located in a one-bedroom apartment in the Allerton section of the borough.
CBS2's Elijah Westbrook spoke with some members about what it takes to grow microgreens before delivering them to local businesses and restaurants.
"We're very much oriented toward addressing food insecurity in the borough and making sure there's healthy food," said Marc de Konkoly Thege, co-director of Mi Oh My Hydroponic Farms.
He explained how they use a water filtration system and advanced light technology.
"Basically you seed it, germinate it for four-or-five days, and then you put it under lights for a maximum of a week," said Konkoly Thege. "All of the nutrients of that plant are really concentrated within those little stalks."
Part of the uniqueness of the operation is the farm is in a cooperative apartment, owned and run directly by the people who work there. Decisions, such as growth methods, are solely made by the members.
"When I came here, I didn't know what I was getting into at all. The thing that drew me most were the people," said Loretta Jordan, member of Mi Oh My Hydroponic Farms.
When it's all set and done, some restaurants in areas like Mott Haven are on the receiving end.
"We really want to focus on being more empowering to people economically and through nutrition," said Sidney Bynem, member of Mi Oh My Hydroponic Farms.
Getting more nutritious produce grown just a short trip away.
"The fact we're giving them to restaurants lets me know it's happening, slowly but surely. The Bronx is receiving more microgreens. It just makes me feel great," said Stephen Oliseyenum, member of Mi Oh My Farms.