Discovering a Hidden Gem in Jurong

In an unexpected corner of Singapore's industrial Jurong area, a vibrant urban farm thrives against all odds. GroGrace, tucked away on the fifth floor of a construction building, is a stunning vertical farm bursting with colors, showcasing oversized lettuces, fresh herbs, and vibrant chard.

Innovative Farming Techniques

Using an innovative Dutch method known as dry hydroponics, GroGrace cultivates plants with roots resting in nutrient-rich water and peat moss, ensuring optimal growth conditions. Co-founder and director Grace Lim explains how this technique diminishes disease risks, enhancing the strength and flavor of each plant.

A Mother's Journey from Nightlife to Nutrition

Before her transformation into a dedicated mother and urban farmer, Lim led a vibrant social life. Upon becoming a mother in 2003, she realized the importance of nurturing healthy habits for her children. Overwhelmed by the idea of pesticides in store-bought produce, she embarked on a mission to grow her own vegetables—a journey that began with a small hydroponics system.

From Backyard to Community Farm

Lim's backyard garden blossomed, inspiring her ambition to share fresh, pesticide-free produce with others. She faced formidable challenges while building GroGrace, especially during the pandemic, but her determination turned vision into reality.

The Fight to Sustain Her Farm

Today, GroGrace sells 14 varieties of vegetables but faces a precarious future. Monthly energy bills of S$20,000 loom large, and Lim struggles to meet costs while battling the pricing disparity with imported produce. Despite the challenges, she contends that her freshly harvested crops are superior—delivered within 24 hours and devoid of harmful chemicals.

Rallying the Community for Change

To combat her mounting challenges, Lim is initiating community group buys, collaborating with local farms to make healthy produce more accessible and affordable. By uniting the community around high-quality, locally-grown vegetables, she hopes to not only sustain GroGrace but revolutionize the local food landscape.

A Vision for a Healthier Tomorrow

For Lim, the farm is not just a business; it represents a chance to improve the nutritional value of meals for families across Singapore. "Eating fresh, locally grown, pesticide-free vegetables can profoundly transform our food habits and health," she asserts, driven by a fierce love for her children and the community. Will GroGrace flourish, or will this urban farming dream dim? The future hangs precariously in the balance.