Basic Urban Farming with Hydroponics
About This Course
The Basic Urban Farming with Hydroponics course introduces participants to the fundamentals of hydroponic systems, plant nutrition, and urban farming practices. Gain insights into the history and advantages of hydroponics, understand various hydroponic systems, and learn how to set up and maintain these systems effectively. Participants will explore different types of growing media, nutrient solutions, and the importance of monitoring pH and EC levels for optimal plant growth.
This course also covers indoor farming techniques, including lighting, temperature, and humidity control, with practical application during a guided tour of a commercial hydroponics farm. Additionally, participants will learn about urban farming regulations in Singapore, good agriculture practices, and workplace safety. This hands-on training equips learners with the skills needed to perform farming activities according to standard operating procedures and regulatory requirements.
What You'll Learn
LO1: Perform farming activities and equipment operations according to standard operating procedures.
LO2: Execute farming operations work in accordance to regulations, WSH practices and housekeeping rules.
Course Outline:
Topic 1: Introduction to Hydroponics and Systems
• Definition and history of hydroponics
• Advantages and disadvantages of hydroponics
• Basic components of a hydroponic system
• Different types of hydroponic systems (e.g., NFT, DWC, Ebb and Flow)
• Selecting the right system for specific crops
• Setting up and maintaining hydroponic systems
Topic 2: Growing Media, Plant Nutrition, and Practical Application
• Types of growing media used in hydroponics
• Nutrient solutions and their preparation
• Monitoring and adjusting pH and EC levels
• Assembling a basic hydroponic system
• Planting and caring for crops in a hydroponic system
• Maintenance and troubleshooting of hydroponic setups
Topic 3: Basic Techniques of Hydroponics Farming
• Principles of indoor farming
• Lighting, temperature, and humidity control
• Integration of hydroponics into indoor farming setups
• Guided hydroponics farm tour at Kok Fah Farm
o Real-world application of hydroponic techniques
o Observation of commercial hydroponic operations
o Understanding farm management and maintenance practices
Topic 4: Urban Farming Practices in Singapore
• Basics of aquaponics and its benefits
• Setting up an aquaponics system
• Regulatory considerations and best practices for urban farming in Singapore
• Performing farming activities in compliance with prevailing regulations
• Good Agriculture Practices (GAPs) and Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) practices
• Equipment cleaning and maintenance techniques
Entry Requirements
- Primary school education and above or be able to speak, listen and read English and read numbers at a proficiency level not lower than the Employability Skills Workforce Skills Qualification Workplace Literacy and Numeracy Level (WPLN Level 3).
- Ordinarily, the learners should be able to comprehend diagrams and the recurring simple phrases in a camera manual.
- Able to lift and hold farming tools such as a spade.
Target age group: 21 - 65 years old