Chapter 16 - Indoor production of tomatoes

Abstract

In this chapter, the founders of 80 Acres Farms and Infinite Acres share their perspectives and insights on indoor farming. After demonstrating success in growing lettuces, other leafy greens, and herbs, 80 Acres has now accomplished first milestones in growing and marketing “commercially viable tomatoes” in indoor vertical farms. The chapter starts with the background and evolution of vertical farming, followed by the justification for including fruiting vegetables as the next candidate crops for indoor vertical farms. The various challenges facing a vertical farm when switching from leafy green production to fruiting vegetable production such as needs for new designs for climate control for a versatile environment and for new equipment to handle a dynamic environment are mentioned. The specifications of the various facilities currently in use in their tomato vertical farm and operational figures are provided.