With the help of a grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Grow-Tech in South Portland has created an innovative new product designed to assist in the growth of hydroponic crops.
The new growing medium, called BioStrate Felt, is a bio-based textile specifically engineered for hydroponic micro-greens and baby salad greens, according to a company press release.
Hydroponics is seen as the answer to concerns about the future of food production, which is being threatened by diminishing soil quality, water scarcity and urban development.
According to Tracy Weber, who works in product development at Grow-Tech, the process of developing the BioStrate technology began five years ago with a small business innovation research grant.