Nguyễn Đức Thêm, a former rubber engineer in Gia Lai, left his stable job in 2020 to pursue hydroponic farming. Inspired by high-tech farms in Đà Lạt, he invested in a 1,000m² greenhouse, a recirculating hydroponic system, and automated nutrient delivery. Despite initial challenges—root rot, bacterial contamination, and suboptimal growth—he refined his techniques, achieving a monthly output of nearly 1 ton of leafy greens (lettuce, kale, and herbs).
Today, his farm earns 25–30 million VND/month (~1,000–1,200), with a net profit of 15 million VND (~$600). Beyond profits, his farm serves as a training hub for students and local farmers, proving that smart farming is the future of rural economies.
The Global Rise of Hydroponics
Hydroponics is gaining traction worldwide due to its efficiency and sustainability:
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Water savings: Hydroponics uses 90% less water than traditional soil farming (FAO, 2023).
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Higher yields: Hydroponic lettuce yields 3–10 times more per acre than soil-grown lettuce (University of Arizona, 2022).
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Faster growth: Plants grow 30–50% faster due to optimized nutrient delivery (NASA research on controlled environments).
In Vietnam, hydroponics is expanding beyond urban areas, with small-scale farmers adopting the model to reduce pesticide use and increase income.
Challenges and Solutions
While hydroponics offers advantages, farmers face hurdles:
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High initial costs (greenhouse setup, automation).
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Technical knowledge (pH/EC balancing, disease control).
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Market access (securing buyers for premium-priced produce).
However, government grants, cooperative models, and training programs (like those in Israel and the Netherlands) can help farmers transition successfully.
The Future of Farming is Smart and Sustainable
Nguyễn Đức Thêm’s story highlights how technology can empower rural farmers, turning challenges into opportunities. As climate change and food security concerns grow, hydroponics and precision agriculture will play a critical role in sustainable farming.
Farmers, agronomists, and policymakers must collaborate to scale hydroponic adoption—ensuring food security, higher incomes, and environmental protection.
