US (CO): The GrowHaus gets serious about hydroponic veg production

In July when Tyler Baras took over as manager of The GrowHaus’ hydroponic greenhouse operation in Denver, Colo., he knew that some changes were going to have to be made. Prior to taking the position, Baras had worked at 3 Boys Farm Inc. in Ruskin, Fla., which was the rst certi ed organic recirculating hydroponic farm in the United States. While in Florida, Baras grew gourmet greens and heirloom tomatoes for high-end clientele including Disney World, Epcot and Emeril’s Orlando.

“Before I arrived at The GrowHaus there was a more laid back approach to production practices related to pest management, sanitation and fertilization,” Baras said. “When I was growing organically in Florida there were a lot of little things that had to be done, especially pest control. Even though The GrowHaus is not a certified organic operation, I have taken a drill sergeant approach to production practices. Sanitation, including cleaning of floors and recently harvested hydroponic channels, is now done weekly. And packaging has been upgraded to meet commercial standards.”

Circle Fresh Farms distributes about 60 percent of The GrowHaus’ crop, mainly red and green bibb lettuce. The lettuce is marketed to Whole Foods Market and King Soopers. The GrowHaus also has local customers including Denver Urban Gardens, Linger, Marczyk Fine Foods and LoHi Steak Bar. The produce is also distributed in a local food basket program for residents of the Elyria-Swansea and Globeville neighborhoods.

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