Becky Ferguson is bringing fresh produce to residents of the Wrangell Senior Apartments, while demonstrating the accessibility of small-scale agriculture.
Several varieties of lettuce are growing in a hoop house on the yard at the apartments, using a technique described by Ferguson as the easiest form of hydroponic gardening.
By placing plants directly above nutrient-rich water, roots naturally absorb both moisture and oxygen as the water level recedes. Because the system requires no pumps, timers, electricity or complex machinery, it offers a simplified option for growers of all experience levels.
Her project, which started at the end of June, was funded by the Alaska Micro-Grants for Food Security Program, an initiative administered by the state Department of Natural Resources Division of Agriculture using federal funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
The competitive program provides money — up to $5,000 for individuals — to help Alaskans expand local food production through small-scale gardening, greenhouses and passive hydroponic setups. Wrangell’s Oceanview Gardens, as well as John and Artha DeRuyter, are also recent recipients of the same micro grant.
Ferguson wants to show that fresh produce can be grown almost anywhere — whether in a greenhouse, home, apartment or on a porch — using simple containers like quart jars, five-gallon buckets or repurposed totes.
She said that if a person brings her a five-gallon bucket, she will demonstrate how to craft the necessary lid and will provide a starter kit including nutrients and a food-grade bucket liner.
People can contact Ferguson through her Facebook page or by stopping at the hoop house at the senior apartments.
