spring fresh hydroponics: soil-free, clean and fresh farming in ohio
We talked to Davin Coblentz a couple of years ago about bringing his hydroponic lettuces to our market because we know the Jeromesville area of Ashland County, Ohio, where his farm is located, is a well-respected ag region in our state. Our customers are loving the addition of his leafy greens to our produce selection. If you haven’t already tried SpringFresh, check it out in our coolers. Read on to learn more from Davin about his family operation.
Q: What exactly is hydroponic farming?
A: Hydroponic plants are grown in a liquid nutrient solution instead of soil. Seeds and plants are suspended in a water-based growth medium which feeds plants directly. The water and minerals used in hydroponic farming are precisely measured and constantly monitored and tested for safety and optimum results. Hydroponics requires only about 10% of the water needed for soil farming and about 20% of the land.
Q: How did you get involved in hydroponic farming?
A: I used to work in masonry. A few years ago, I was looking for a change. I wanted something year-round that our family could be involved in. I bought land adjacent to our home and put up two hydroponic greenhouses in 2022. Since then, we’ve expanded to farm three greenhouse bays. We now supply dozens of grocery stores, farm markets and restaurants in central Ohio. Our farm is operated by myself, my wife, our daughters and a few employees.
Q: What do you grow?
A: So far, we’ve focused on mostly growing lettuces but also a few herbs and microgreens. We have numerous varieties of red and green leaf lettuces, including romaine and butter bibb. The herbs that we grow and harvest are basil and cilantro.
Q: What do you want customers to know about Springfresh Hydroponics?
A: SpringFresh is a clean and fresh farm. We use a type of organic insecticide that’s traditionally used by organic farmers so we are essentially chemical free. We also harvest and deliver in the same week. We often harvest on Mondays and our products are available for purchase as soon as the next day. We strive for peak freshness – from our farm to your table.
Q: Why did you start working with Moser’s Farm Market?
A: Brad is very concerned with good, quality products and supporting local farmers. He’s intense in that area. I feel confident that they are offering their customers the best that they can find in the area.
