Local sourcing is a hot topic in the food industry and it is a reality not just in large cities but here in Bridgeville at the Heritage Shores restaurants. On Thursday, July 12 members of the food and beverage focus group visited the Baywater Greens hydroponic farm in Salisbury where we are now buying our Spring Mix for the garden salads and Bibb Lettuce (possibly with more products in the future). Owners were welcoming and the group was impressed with the organized and clean surroundings.
From spring through to Thanksgiving we are fortunate to have more and more farm markets
right here where we can purchase fresh produce. But hydroponic growing allows for a 4 week turn around, year round. What would take 6 acres of land to grow is grown at Baywater Greens in a building that is only ¾ of an acre. The ability to control additives, run off, insect damage are obvious advantages.
Walt Disney was the first to experiment with the concept of hydroponics at their famous Epcot center. While Baywater Greens currently only produces certain types of Lettuces and leafy Greens, Epcot Center has proven you can grow almost anything hydroponically, and even make special shapes out of the produce! Epcot has been growing Hydroponic plants for well over 25years.
Next time you dine at Passwaters or the Tavern enjoy a fresh, flavorful locally sourced salad.
By: Bill and Peggy Atwood
http://baywatergreens.com/