In the fertile region of Lam Ha District, Meli Green Farm has emerged as a pioneering model of hydroponic vegetable cultivation. Spanning over 5,000 square meters, this innovative greenhouse project produces 70,000 hydroponically grown vegetables, supplying major retailers such as Bach Hoa Xanh, Dong Xanh Group, and VietFarm. The project not only ensures high-quality produce but also demonstrates the potential for expanding high-tech agriculture into new territories.
The idea for Meli Green Farm was conceived by Nguyen Thi Thu Trang, the director of the cooperative, inspired by her sister’s experiences with green agricultural models in Singapore. “The initial goal was to grow clean vegetables without using chemicals for our family. If successful, we aimed to extend this to the broader market, ensuring customers could consume clean vegetables daily,” said Trang. The climate and soil of Me Linh in Lam Ha were ideal for this high-tech, clean agricultural model, leading to the establishment of the cooperative with significant investment from Trang and her siblings.
Before starting the hydroponic garden, Trang invested substantial time researching and learning from successful models in Da Lat and Bao Loc. This preparation culminated in the construction of the greenhouse at Buon Chuoi with an investment exceeding 6 billion VND. In March 2023, Meli Green Farm Cooperative was officially formed with seven members, and by June 2023, they began cultivating hydroponic vegetables over 5,000 square meters using Israeli technology.
Hydroponic farming offers several advantages, such as eliminating the need for soil, pesticides, and chemical fertilizers, and relying on automated nutrient delivery systems. Despite initial challenges, including weather-related crop damage and a steep learning curve in high-tech agriculture, the cooperative persevered. Through diligent research and community engagement, Trang and her team enhanced their knowledge of green agriculture and high-tech farming methods.
A key aspect of their success lies in the meticulous care given to the plants. From selecting high-quality seeds to using treated coconut fiber as a growth medium, every step ensures the plants are free from disease and optimally nourished. This rigorous approach allows the farm to harvest crops within just 45 days, achieving a survival rate of over 90%.
Initially experimenting with various vegetables, the cooperative now focuses on two main types: Lollo lettuce and iceberg lettuce, grown hydroponically in separate, age-appropriate zones. This methodical approach has earned Meli Green Farm a reputation for quality, leading to partnerships with major retailers and expanding their market reach to Ho Chi Minh City, the Central Highlands, and the Mekong Delta.
Each day, Meli Green Farm ships between 2,000 to 2,500 hydroponic vegetable plants, equivalent to 500 to 800 kg, at prices ranging from 6,000 to 7,000 VND per plant and 28,000 to 32,000 VND per kilogram. The farm not only supplies clean vegetables but also creates jobs for nearly ten local workers, with an average salary of 6 million VND per month.
Looking ahead, Meli Green Farm plans to expand its hydroponic farming area by another 5,000 square meters and collaborate with local farmers who adhere to safe, high-quality vegetable cultivation practices. The cooperative aims to become a leading provider of premium agricultural products in Vietnam and to penetrate demanding export markets such as Japan, South Korea, and Singapore.
As the first hydroponic vegetable cooperative in Lam Ha District, Meli Green Farm sets a precedent for the region’s agricultural development. Supported by local authorities, the cooperative has successfully navigated the regulatory landscape, contributing to the district’s “One Commune One Product” (OCOP) program. This initiative encourages local enterprises to partner with the government in building a strong local agricultural brand, thereby boosting rural economic growth.
Meli Green Farm’s success underscores the transformative potential of hydroponic farming in new regions. By combining high-tech agriculture with meticulous care and strategic market engagement, the cooperative not only enhances local food quality but also fosters economic growth and job creation. As they expand and innovate, Meli Green Farm is poised to become a benchmark for sustainable agriculture in Vietnam and beyond.
