The issue of water scarcity is becoming increasingly urgent around the world, amid changing climate and rainfall patterns. In fact, UN Water predicts that, by 2030, more than 700-million people will be displaced due to global water scarcity.
Against that backdrop, the singular challenge of this generation will be to find ways to make the water we have last as long as possible. This is particularly critical in food production, which remains one of the biggest sectors when it comes to water consumption, globally.
That’s why at Starke Ayres, we champion innovation around water conservation and environmental sustainability. So we’re very excited about Hydrocache, a groundbreaking new product which results in a saving on the water it takes to grow your plants.
The inspiration for Hydrocache came from the use of “super gels” in forestry. These gels are made of synthetic polymers that have the ability to swell and retain water.
So what makes Hydrocache different from other gels that are currently available?
It has two significant characteristics which work in tandem to provide a simple but highly effective solution. Not only do the synthetic polymers absorb and retain water to prevent water loss, each synthetic polymer has carbon bonded onto it. This carbon attracts and retains micro and macro nutrients which in turn are passed onto - and absorbed by - the plant as it draws water from the Hydrocache gel mixture around its roots.
Growing small-scale subsistence farmers and gardeners
Hydrocache isn’t just for large-scale commercial farms. The ability to spend significantly less on water and ensure more plants thrive is just as critical for small-scale subsistence farmers and home gardeners. And this is a key reason why South Africa’s largest independent vegetable seed company, Starke Ayres, is championing the use of Hydrocache.
Hydrocache is available for use in commercial farming, small-scale subsistence farming and domestic use on lawns, gardens and even in pot plants.