BROOKLYN GRANGE

― Rooftop Soil Garden

↑ Brooklyn Grange ― Courtesy of Brooklyn Grange

Brooklyn Grange emerged against a culturally transformative period influenced by significant socio-economic shifts. The establishment of Brooklyn Grange coincided with America’s emergence from the 2008 election cycle when investments in alternative energy sources were gaining momentum, and the startup industry was beginning to redefine the business landscape while the nation was still recovering from the aftermath of the global financial crash.

The enterprise represents a response to the challenges posed by a rapidly changing world and reflects the profound shifts in social and economic landscapes that characterised the early 21st century. Within this climate of aspiration and innovation, Anastasia Plakias, Gwen Schantz, and Ben Flanner, Brooklyn Grange’s co-founders, began exploring a fiscally sustainable model for urban agriculture.

SYSTEM DESIGN

Brooklyn Grange's system design embodies a compelling approach to urban agriculture, utilising the untapped potential of rooftop spaces for cultivating a diverse array of crops. Through meticulous attention to detail, innovative growing processes, and significant business modelling, they transform these underutilised areas into thriving urban farms.

Central to their system design is the implementation of intensive green roofs, utilising a custom soil blend that balances the porosity necessary for adequate drainage with organic matter critical to heavy-feeding edible crops. This deliberate choice takes into consideration the weight limitations of rooftop construction, enabling efficient and productive cultivation. Brooklyn Grange is largely a soil-based operation, though they have integrated hydroponic and greenhouse technologies into their system design. Hydroponics, an innovative method of growing plants in nutrient-rich water, bypasses the need for traditional soil-based agriculture, leading to enhanced water conservation and precise nutrient delivery. Incorporating greenhouses extend the growing season year-round, shielding seedlings and certain crops from extreme weather conditions and fostering a controlled environment.

By contrast, for two months of the year, field production is paused due to cold weather and the potential of snow and frost. Over this period, routine maintenance is carried out, and the turnover assists in eradicating pests without chemical control. A critical aspect of their system design is the deliberate selection of well-suited crops for urban farming. By prioritising varieties that thrive in the unique challenges of urban environments, exhibit a high yield per square foot, and align with the desires and preferences of the local community, Brooklyn Grange ensures the social value and cultural relevance of their agricultural endeavours.