In crowded cities where land is scarce, farmers are beginning to grow food in tall buildings instead of fields. These vertical farms stack layers of plants under special lights that copy the effect of sunlight. Because the crops grow indoors, they are protected from storms, droughts and insects, so farmers can produce vegetables all year round. Supporters point out that vertical farms use far less water than traditional agriculture, since the water is recycled in a closed system. The farms can also be built close to supermarkets, which reduces the distance food travels and keeps it fresher. However, the technology is expensive to install, and the electricity needed for lighting can be considerable. As a result, vertical farms are currently most suitable for fast-growing crops such as lettuce and herbs. Scientists are working to make the systems cheaper and more efficient. If energy costs fall, vertical farming could play a significant role in feeding the growing population of the world’s cities.
lights
Supporters point out that vertical farms use far less [blank1] than traditional agriculture, since the water is [blank2] in a closed system.
water
recycled
According to the passage, why can vertical farms produce vegetables all year round?
they are protected from storms, droughts and insects
What is the main idea of the passage?
Vertical farms have already replaced traditional agriculture in most cities.
Vertical farming offers real benefits for cities but still faces cost challenges.
Supermarkets refuse to buy vegetables from vertical farms.
Growing food indoors requires more water than growing it in fields.
Choose the best title for this passage:
Growing Food in the Sky: The Rise of Vertical Farms
How Supermarkets Choose Their Suppliers
The History of Traditional Agriculture
Why Sunlight Is Important for Plants
According to the passage, which crops are most suitable for vertical farms at present?
fast-growing crops such as lettuce and herbs
