Lebanese grower looking for help to start up hydroponic operation

After a devastating fire destroyed his successful mushroom farm, Lebanese grower Fadi Bou Arbid wants to start a new venture in hydroponics. The agricultural entrepreneur is therefore looking for industry fellows to introduce him to technologies and help him to set up a new operation.

In the beginning of this year, a giant fire destroyed about 70% of Fadi's farm. While the grower always had been interested in other farming techniques, he decided that the reconstruction of his devastated operations would be a good moment to take a look at different crops and production techniques. Therefore he plans to establish high tunnels and hydroponic greenhouses on the property that he has available next to his mushroom farm.

Fadi sees opportunities for hydroponic produce in the Lebanese market. "Much of the produce offered on the local wholesale markets doesn't meet high quality standards. Some lettuce is being sold at good prices and when you produce a stable quality product you can take advantage of this."

While Lebanon has a strong agriculture sector, Fadi is not familiar with many other hydroponic or greenhouse growers in his area. "I am in touch with some greenhouses in the south that grow hydroponic cucumbers and tomatoes, but I am looking to connect with other professionals elsewhere to research opportunities."

The grower, who is a U.S. citizen, is willing to travel to visit other growers and operations in order to learn more about technologies and hydroponic production. While Lebanon has a very hot and dry climate, Fadi think that controlled environment agriculture will provide him with good opportunities to grow crops year round. "I need to conduct research if this is possible, taking a closer look at planting schemes and try to determine if this is a good opportunity."

Fadi's land is located 550 meters above sealevel and during the summer time the average day temperature is between 30-35 degrees Celsius and 20 at night. In the winter the temperature doesn't go below zero. The average day temperature is 18-20 degrees Celsius and around 6-7 at night.

Companies, suppliers and any other industry professionals that can help Fadi with technology, information or education are being invited to contact him:

Fadi Bou Arbid
+96178999788
fadibouarbid@gmail.com

Publication date: Fri 26 Aug 2016
Author: Arlette Sijmonsma
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