US (NV): Hydroponic grower looking to expand into Vegas
Walking down the rows, you’ll see just about anything from cucumbers and chives to three kinds of basil and countless types of lettuce. The thousands of pounds of produce at Desert Greens H2O, 825 W. Roban Ave., are grown hydroponically, which opts for a nutrient-infused water instead of soil.
In 2006, he and his brother founded Nevada Naturals in Reno and opened two hydroponic greenhouses in the area. About three months ago, he opened his first Henderson facility — the grand opening ceremony is slated for late August.
Though things are still growing and he continues to plant new items, his first batch of vegetables were ready in July.
From water shortages to food contamination, Blount said hydroponics can offer solutions to many problems that have arisen in the food industry. What makes hydroponics a better alternative to regular growing, he said, is the amount of water used.
Blount has had chefs come out to tour the facility and talk about using various items, including Brett Uniss, executive chef at B&B Ristorante in The Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian. He toured the facility in mid-July and began talking to Blount about items to potentially have at the restaurant.
Prior to B&B Ristorante, he would supply his former employer, Honey Salt, 1031 S. Rampart Blvd., with fresh produce. He is currently working out a deal to buy produce from Blount to have at multiple properties at The Venetian, 3355 Las Vegas Blvd. South.
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