The technique of growing crops in a vertical manner is gaining a lot of traction across the globe due to the loss of arable land, increasing urbanization and industrialization.

The name itself indicates that vertical farming is one type of agricultural farming in which the crops are grown in systematic and vertically align stacked layers, rather than growing them traditionally or in a horizontal way. Growing crops vertically saves space and results in a higher crop yield per square foot of land used. Vertical farms are typically found indoors, such as in a warehouse and old buildings where they can regulate the environmental conditions necessary for plants to thrive. Water covers over 70% of the globe, yet just 2.5% of it is fresh. Only 1% of freshwater is readily available, while agriculture consumes 70% of it globally. The factors like the temperature, fertigation-nutrient material, pH, humidity and lightning etc. are well-maintained 24/7 in vertical farming. That's why many farmers see vertical farming as having a lot in common with greenhouse farming. The increasing water scarcity and loss of arable land across the globe are the main drivers pushing the vertical farming market. This is because; the vertical farming method uses more than 90-95% less water & soil.

The demand for organic food products is likely to boost the vertical farming technology in the forecast period. This farming method's main purpose is to maximize crop output in a small environment. Global food production is being revolutionized by vertical farming. However, when compared to conventional agriculture, the amount of chemicals utilized in vertical farming is substantially reduced. Traditional agriculture consumes more than 90% of the chemicals used in vertical farming. In vertical farming, crops are majorly grown indoors under an artificial setup of lighting and temperature control. Vertical farming technology significantly uses less pesticide compared to traditional farming. Being indoors, crops are not subject to seasons or any climate changes. Due to that, vertical farming gives high productivity year-round. Lettuces, tomatoes, and green crops can be commonly produced from the vertical farming process. Since vertical farming does not depend on weather, it allows farmers to achieve consistent annual crop production.

The global vertical farming market is experiencing significant growth, driven by advancements in agricultural technologies and the increasing demand for sustainable food production. This market can be analyzed through various lenses, including growth mechanisms, structure types, components, application types, and crop types. This soilless cultivation method uses nutrient-rich water solutions to nourish plants. Hydroponics is favored for its efficient resource utilization and control over growing conditions, leading to higher yields. In this system, plant roots are suspended in the air and misted with nutrient solutions. Aeroponics offers rapid growth rates and efficient use of water and nutrients, making it a promising technique in vertical farming. This approach combines aquaculture (raising fish) with hydroponics. Waste produced by the fish supplies nutrients for the plants, while the plants help purify the water, creating a symbiotic environment. Utilizing existing structures or purpose-built facilities, this method integrates farms into urban environments, reducing the distance between production and consumption. Repurposed shipping containers serve as modular, scalable farming units. These self-contained systems can be deployed in various locations, offering flexibility and resilience.
Artificial lighting, particularly LED systems, is crucial in vertical farming to provide the necessary spectrum and intensity for plant growth, compensating for the lack of natural sunlight. Maintaining optimal temperature and humidity levels is essential for crop health. Advanced HVAC systems ensure a stable growing environment, enhancing productivity. These devices monitor various parameters such as soil moisture, nutrient levels, and environmental conditions, enabling precise control and automation of the farming process. Efficient delivery of water and nutrients is managed through sophisticated irrigation and fertigation systems, ensuring plants receive the right amounts at the right times. Conducted within controlled environments like warehouses or dedicated buildings, indoor vertical farming allows for year-round production, independent of external weather conditions. This approach incorporates vertical farming techniques in open-air settings, often utilizing structures like vertical racks or towers, and relies partially on natural climatic conditions. A popular choice in vertical farming due to their high demand and suitability for controlled environment agriculture are the tomatoes. Bell & Chili Peppers thrive in vertical systems, benefiting from controlled climates that enhance yield and quality. A staple in vertical farms, lettuce grows rapidly and requires relatively simple setups, making it economically viable. Culinary herbs like basil and mint are well-suited for vertical farming, offering high value and quick turnover.