S4 E28 Interview with ALLPA Vertical Farm: Urban Farmers Growing Microgreens and Basil

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In this episode we’re learning about growing microgreens and herbs in a hydroponic vertical farm. Andrey Salazar and Guillermo Borges from ALLPA Vertical Farms in Calgary, Alberta, share the story of how they became urban farmers. As they explain, it takes a lot of hard work, some trial and error, specialized technical expertise and a little luck. 

Vertical farming is the practice of growing crops in vertically stacked layers. In the ALLPA farm, stacks are 14 feet high. The environment is carefully controlled for optimal temperature and light, and the plants are fed exactly the nutrients they need for growth, nutrition and amazing flavour. 

This episode first came about when Erin bought ALLPA living basil at the local market and declared it the best basil she had ever eaten. The pesto from this basil is absolutely fantastic! We’ve since been adding microgreens into our sandwiches, on burgers, as side salad, you name it. Any place you’d normally add lettuce (think tacos or wraps), microgreens will give more flavour and extra nutrition. The radish microgreens may be our favourite - they’re spicy and add a nice kick to everything. In the second half of the episode we give you some ideas for incorporating microgreens into your meals. 

If you’re in Alberta, please give ALLPA a try (check their website for locations). But wherever you happen to be, we encourage you to source a local grower of microgreens. You won’t be sorry!   

Episode Links
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~ ALLPA Vertical Farms Website
~ ALLPA Products : Where to Buy
~ Egg Salad with Radish Microgreens
~ Beef & Baby Bok Choy Stir Fry
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