I
n 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 first certified
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.”
Left: The GrowHaus is using
an hydroponic New Growing
System that was developed in
Spain.
Below: The GrowHaus’ bibb
lettuce is marketed to Whole
Foods Market and King
Soopers, as well as other
local customers.
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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