Flower Hospital will grow veggies for cafeteria

7/1/2008

Flower Hospital yesterday unveiled a hydroponic garden on its campus in Sylvania as ProMedica Health System officials started promoting the soilless method as a way to grow vegetables in urban settings and improve nutrition.

Vegetables from the garden's more than 2,000 plants will be used in the hospital cafeteria and donated to Sylvania Area Family Services.

The garden, which will be a point of interest for educational tours and nutrition classes, was showcased as ProMedica announced a partnership with the Center for Innovative Food Technology during a news conference with U.S. Rep. Marcy Kaptur (D., Toledo).

The garden's pots, which are mounted on poles, are filled with a coconut potting medium designed to hold moisture.

Hydroponic gardens can be installed in nontraditional locations, including parking lots and vacant urban areas, according to the center.