Rooftop Farm at Ryerson University

Introduction

Location: Ryerson University, downtown Toronto.
Size: Quarter-acre farm.
Annual Production: 10,000 pounds of food.
Distribution: Farmers' market, CSA customers, and Ryerson's food room (free for students).

Initial Trials: Grew a variety of crops including corn, broccoli, potatoes, tomatoes, etc.
Current Focus: High-value crops with continual harvests such as tomatoes, peas, beans, salad greens, radishes, carrots, and beets.
Soil: Lightweight engineered soil high in organic matter, beneficial for water retention.
Watering: Weekly drip tape system used to minimize evaporation and mimic heavy storms. Adjusted based on weather forecasts for stormwater management.

Cross-disciplinary interest: Nutrition, architecture, engineering, environmental studies, urban planning, and business students.
Student Initiative: Started with a mission to grow food on campus and create learning opportunities.
Ecological Market Garden Program: 10-week program from mid-March to end of May.
- Combines hands-on field sessions with technical classroom training.

Saba's Journey: Reignited interest in gardening through participation in the training program, leading to a newfound interest in science and agriculture.

Viable option for local food production in urban areas.
Challenges: Expensive and requires significant organization.
Benefits: Educational opportunities, community engagement, and potential for urban replication.
Influence: Encourages visitors to consider rooftop farming in other locations.

Rooftop farming is a replicable model with significant educational and community benefits.
Emphasis on documenting and sharing successful practices for broader adoption.
Encouragement for community involvement and exploration of alternative lifestyles.

Note: Subscribe to the channel for more content on alternative lifestyles.