Indian pennywort, commonly known as rau càng cua, is a humble yet highly nutritious plant native to Southeast Asia. Rich in essential nutrients like iron, magnesium, potassium, and vitamin C, it has traditionally been harvested from the wild. However, its growing popularity in both local and restaurant markets has prompted innovative farmers to explore modern methods for cultivating this sought-after leafy vegetable.
Huỳnh Huy Hoàng, Chairman of Phước Hoàng An High-Tech Agriculture Cooperative, has taken this opportunity to transform Indian pennywort farming through hydroponics. Located in Gò Dầu District, Tây Ninh Province, Hoàng’s 2,500-square-meter greenhouse farm is a showcase of modern agricultural practices. Alongside Indian pennywort, he grows other leafy greens such as mustard greens and lettuce using hydroponic techniques. His efforts align with the increasing consumer demand for clean, chemical-free produce that is grown sustainably.
Hydroponic farming, particularly in controlled greenhouse environments, offers several advantages over traditional soil-based cultivation. For instance, Indian pennywort, while a relatively hardy plant, is susceptible to problems like premature flowering, which can stunt growth and reduce yields. After several trial and error cycles, Hoàng discovered that by increasing the humidity levels within his greenhouse, he could control the flowering process and enhance plant growth.
Currently, Hoàng’s farm harvests approximately 50 kg of Indian pennywort per day, amounting to nearly 2 tons per month. With a steady market demand, he supplies local markets and vendors in Ho Chi Minh City, where the price per kilogram ranges between VND 22,000 and 35,000, depending on the season. The hydroponic model allows continuous, staggered harvesting, ensuring a consistent supply throughout the year.
A significant benefit of hydroponic farming is its efficiency in resource usage. The system at Hoàng’s farm recycles nutrient-rich water through a closed loop, significantly reducing water consumption. With the crops grown 1 meter above the ground in nutrient troughs, the risk of contamination by soil-borne pathogens, such as E.coli, is minimized. Research conducted in countries like the U.S. has shown that hydroponically grown vegetables have a lower risk of contamination compared to those grown in soil.
Another major advantage of the hydroponic system is labor efficiency. While traditional vegetable farms require significant manual labor for soil preparation, weeding, and pest control, Hoàng’s 2,500-square-meter hydroponic farm operates smoothly with just 2-3 workers. This not only reduces labor costs but also enhances productivity. The controlled environment inside the greenhouse provides the optimal conditions for plant growth, minimizing the occurrence of pests and diseases, which further reduces the need for chemical interventions.
In terms of financial investment, Hoàng acknowledges that the initial setup for a hydroponic farm is high, especially for equipment like recirculation systems, nutrient troughs, and misting irrigation systems. However, with access to subsidized loans through the Cooperative Alliance, he was able to invest in this modern agricultural model without undue financial strain. Hoàng is confident that the long-term benefits, including higher yields and stable market prices, will quickly offset the startup costs.
As for Indian pennywort, the growth cycle is relatively short, taking around two months from planting to the first harvest. After the initial harvest, the plants can continue producing for two more cycles before they need to be replanted. After each cycle, the hydroponic system is cleaned, and the nutrient solution is refreshed, ensuring the health and productivity of future crops.
With plans to expand his farm by an additional 1,000 square meters, Hoàng is committed to applying the latest advancements in agricultural technology. He hopes to diversify his product line and improve the quality of his crops to meet the growing demand for clean, safe, and nutritious food. Moreover, he actively participates in workshops and training sessions on high-tech farming methods, offered by provincial authorities and the Farmer’s Union, to stay updated with cutting-edge techniques.
Hoàng’s innovative approach has garnered attention from both local farmers and aspiring agripreneurs. His farm has become a model of success in the region, attracting visitors eager to learn from his experience. Young farmers like Huỳnh Nguyễn Quang Dũng, inspired by the potential of hydroponic farming, have sought Hoàng’s guidance to develop their own ventures in the clean vegetable market. Hoàng is more than willing to share his knowledge, believing that the future of agriculture lies in cooperation and innovation.
Hoàng’s hydroponic farm has been recognized by the local Farmer’s Union as one of the most promising agricultural startups of 2024. As consumer preferences increasingly shift toward healthier, safer food options, hydroponic farming offers a viable and sustainable solution to meet this demand while enhancing agricultural productivity.
Huỳnh Huy Hoàng’s hydroponic model for Indian pennywort and other leafy greens is an exemplary case of how high-tech farming can address the challenges faced by traditional agriculture. By utilizing modern technology, Hoàng has not only boosted his farm’s productivity but also ensured that his crops are clean, safe, and sustainable. His model offers valuable insights for farmers looking to adopt more efficient, resource-conscious practices in vegetable production.
