Project Overview: The SolarHarvest Garden will be a sustainable, technology-driven gardening system located at the Power Family Home (718 SW 199th, Normandy Park, WA). This 100-square-foot garden integrates solar energy, electroculture, mycelium networks, cold plasma technology, rainwater harvesting, and regenerative agricultural practices. The goal is to maximize plant growth, soil health, and water conservation while minimizing environmental impact and energy consumption.
Mission Statement: To create a self-sustaining, eco-friendly garden that provides high-quality produce while utilizing cutting-edge technologies to improve soil health, increase crop yields, and promote environmental stewardship.
Maximize Plant Health and Growth through integrated technologies such as electroculture, cold plasma, and mycelium networks.
Optimize Resource Use by leveraging solar power for irrigation and electroculture, while reducing water waste through rainwater harvesting and Clay Ollas irrigation systems.
Implement Sustainable Agricultural Practices to create a regenerative, closed-loop farming system, including the use of biochar, composting, and natural pest control.
Promote Community Engagement and Education by showcasing the benefits of sustainable farming technologies and eco-friendly practices.
Goal: Provide a clean and renewable source of energy for the garden’s various systems.
Technology: Non-permanent solar racking system with Nuon Solar Panels positioned on the ground. These panels will power electroculture systems, irrigation pumps, and cold plasma devices.
Operational Task:
Install solar panels in March.
Monitor energy output and system efficiency throughout the growing season.
Goal: Monitor and improve soil conditions, ensuring that the plants receive the right nutrients and pH levels.
Technology: Soil sensors placed throughout the garden to measure moisture, temperature, and nutrient levels.
Operational Task:
Install sensors in early April.
Regularly calibrate and monitor sensor data for optimized irrigation and nutrient management.
Goal: Efficiently collect and distribute water while ensuring it’s pathogen-free and balanced for optimal plant growth.
Technology: Rainwater harvesting system connected to Clay Ollas, and water treated with cold plasma technology. Cold plasma treatment will purify the water, breaking down pathogens and improving its plant compatibility.
Operational Task:
Install rainwater collection system and Clay Ollas in early April.
Ensure that the cold plasma treatment system is functioning to purify the harvested rainwater.
Adjust irrigation schedules based on soil sensor data.
Goal: Efficiently collect and distribute water while ensuring it’s pathogen-free and balanced for optimal plant growth.
Technology: Rainwater harvesting system connected to Clay Ollas, and water treated with cold plasma technology. Cold plasma treatment will purify the water, breaking down pathogens and improving its plant compatibility.
Operational Task:
Install rainwater collection system and Clay Ollas in early April.
Ensure that the cold plasma treatment system is functioning to purify the harvested rainwater.
Adjust irrigation schedules based on soil sensor data.
Goal: Improve soil health, enhance nutrient absorption, and naturally deter pests by using mycelium networks.
Technology: Inoculate the garden soil with beneficial mycelium to enhance the soil’s biological activity and create a natural network of fungal support.
Operational Task:
Introduce mycelium into the garden beds in early April.
Regularly monitor the health of the mycelium network and its effects on soil and plant growth.
Goal: Promote biodiversity, enhance soil health, and increase crop yields by using companion planting techniques based on the Three Sisters method.
Crop Organization:
First Section: Watermelon, Sweet Potatoes, and Sunflowers (Ground Vine/Mound Plants).
Second Section: Corn, Beans, and Melons (Tall Plants and Climbers).
Third Section: Strawberries, Hemp, and Beans (Mixed Companion Plants).
Operational Task:
Plant crops according to the Three Sisters method in mid-April.
Monitor growth throughout the season and adjust care as necessary.
Goal: Improve soil structure, increase fertility, and promote healthy plant growth.
Technology: Apply biochar, compost, and biogas liquid fertilizer to enhance soil quality and nutrient availability.
Operational Task:
Apply biochar and compost in March to prepare the soil.
Apply biogas liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks throughout the growing season.
Goal: Manage pests without the use of synthetic chemicals.
Method: Use a mixture of Epsom salt and borax to naturally repel pests and improve soil health.
Operational Task:
Apply Epsom salt and borax as a natural pest deterrent, especially for crops prone to insect damage (e.g., beans, sweet potatoes, strawberries).
Monthly Reports: Employees will submit monthly reports on the progress of planting, soil health, irrigation efficiency, and any issues encountered.
Mid-Season Review: A mid-season evaluation to assess crop growth, system performance, and make adjustments as necessary.
End-of-Season Report: A comprehensive review of the season, including lessons learned, successes, challenges, and recommendations for the next season.
At the end of each growing season, we will conduct a review of all systems (solar, irrigation, electroculture, etc.) to identify areas for improvement.
Explore opportunities for expanding the garden, including incorporating more solar energy systems, enhancing the mycelium network, and improving the rainwater harvesting system.
Investigate new sustainable technologies and methods to further reduce the carbon footprint and energy use of the garden while increasing productivity.
Conclusion: The SolarHarvest Garden in 2025 will serve as a model for sustainable, technology-driven urban farming. By integrating solar energy, electroculture, mycelium networks, and other eco-friendly technologies, the garden will provide an abundance of healthy produce while minimizing environmental impact. This operational plan ensures that all tasks are clearly outlined, allowing for a smooth and successful growing season.