Innovative Sustainable Farming Takes Off in Memphis
If you thought the latest trend in gardening was just about organic vegetables and beautiful flower beds, think again! Memphis is now buzzing with excitement over a new product that has taken the world of sustainable gardening by storm. Meet Ounce of Hope, a local company that has taken its obsession with growing plants to the next level by diving into the world of aquaponics—and even fish poop!
A Unique Approach
Ounce of Hope, known for its range of CBD offerings including gummies, oils, and even dog treats, has transformed its business model to include fish farming and sustainable agriculture. About three years ago, their founder established an indoor aquaponic cannabis farm, which not only produces robust hemp plants but also hosts large tanks filled with tilapia and koi fish. You might be wondering what the connection is between a cannabis farm and fish, and that’s where the magic happens!
Meet Concentrated Fish Poop
Yes, you heard that right! The latest product making waves is a nutrient-packed fertilizer known as Concentrated Fish Poop. This isn’t just any fertilizer—it’s OMRI certified, making it an organic option for gardening enthusiasts. According to Cam Heil, the director of business management at Ounce of Hope, the concept of offering fish poop as a fertilizer was part of the plan from the start, although it took a bit of time to bring it to fruition. “It was a long road to get there because balancing the water chemistry and setting up a new system took us almost two years,” he explained.
Getting the Certification
One significant milestone for Ounce of Hope was obtaining the organic certification for their product. Heil noted the challenges they faced, saying, “There’s no established channel to go through.” This certification is proof that aquaponic farming can be clean and sustainable, countering misconceptions about farming practices.
The Fish Behind the Fertilizer
What’s special about the fish? The company has chosen **koi** and **tilapia** for very specific reasons. Koi fish are easy to obtain and can be shipped ice-free, while tilapia is known for its hardiness and is the most farmed fish in the world. Both are crucial contributors to the nutrient profile of the fertilizer. Heil mentions that the tilapia’s droppings are particularly rich in phosphorus, an essential nutrient for growth—especially for cannabis plants.
A Growing Community
The buzz is not just confined to Ounce of Hope’s local farm. The benefits of Concentrated Fish Poop are being felt in the region as it’s already in use across various farms and community gardens. This includes places like Greenleaf Farms, Black Seeds Urban Farm, and the Dixon Gallery & Gardens. Consequently, it’s gaining popularity among local home gardeners looking for an *organic* fertilizer that delivers results.
Where to Find It
If you’re eager to try out this exciting new product, Concentrated Fish Poop is readily available on the Ounce of Hope website, on Walmart, and even on Amazon! It was a strategic move to get the product on Amazon, and the changes made to labeling and product presentation paid off.
Looking to the Future
As for what’s next in the world of fish poop, Heil is optimistic. “It’s something that we can develop more of. It is a single product in a category that is completely blank,” he stated. With numerous options in the fertilizer market, Ounce of Hope sees opportunities for expansion, possibly adding vital nutrients to create customized fertilizers tailored for different gardening needs.
Final Thoughts
So, whether you’re a seasoned gardener or someone just starting on your home gardening journey, Ounce of Hope’s Concentrated Fish Poop might just be the unique addition you didn’t know you needed. With its sustainable roots and perfect blend of nutrition, it’s time to give your plants what they crave with a little help from our fishy friends in Memphis!
