FarmZero at Open House Chicago

Farm Zero is a first of its kind vertical hydroponic farm located on the 18th floor at 30 N. LaSalle, operational since August 2024. This former office was vacated due to the impacts of Covid-19, and in light of systemic issues with food access and quality in Chicago, the idea of a farm was brought to the space. Utilizing a soilless modular growing system, Farm Zero cultivates microgreens, leafy greens, herbs, and edible flowers. With a central city location, Farm Zero offers hyperlocal produce to surrounding communities that maintains its quality for far longer than what Midwestern consumers are used to. One of the goals is to reconnect residents with their food system to promote healthy living through the nutritional benefits of microgreens. Broader education on what is possible through urban agriculture and hydroponics is needed. Guided tours of six guests at a time are mandatory in the grow room given food safety responsibilities. Live harvesting and packing of edible flowers and microgreens will be on view, and samples of microgreens will be offered. There will also be a station-by-station experience in the office space and processing room.