Amid Jakarta’s dense urban landscape, Ladang Farm has emerged as Indonesia’s tallest vertical hydroponic garden. Located in Cilandak, South Jakarta, the 18-metre-high structure has been operating since 2022 and demonstrates how limited space can be used for modern food production.
The farm employs an internet of things (IoT)-based hydroponic system and cultivates more than 33,000 plants through over 300 pipe installations. Among the crops are Italian basil, Thai basil, shiso (perilla), mint and lettuce.
Each month, Ladang Farm harvests between one and two tonnes of vegetables, most of which are supplied directly to restaurants and hotels across Jakarta.
Farm manager Nova Riswanto explained that Ladang Farm was established in response to urban demand for healthy produce. “In urban areas, land is limited; there’s not much available. So it’s also difficult for people in urban areas to get fresh, pesticide-free vegetables that are close and easily accessible,” he said in Jakarta on 24 September, as quoted by Beritasatu.
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Located on Jalan Haji Ipin, Lebak Bulus, Ladang Farm is open to the public. Visitors can watch the growing process, pick vegetables and purchase them on site. Nova noted that the production system ensures freshness and efficiency. “We want to ensure that the vegetables consumers receive are always fresh, healthy, and pesticide-free,” he said.
Community Participation and Sustainable Practices
The farm also serves a social function by involving local residents in its operations. Women from nearby communities are encouraged to take part in planting, maintaining and harvesting. Nova said this approach helped generate income opportunities while strengthening community involvement.
Unlike traditional farming, Ladang Farm does not stockpile vegetables. Orders are harvested when needed, which reduces waste and ensures quality. The farm’s proximity to consumers also lowers transportation costs and minimises its carbon footprint, making the project an example of sustainable urban agriculture.
The cultivation process begins with seeding, followed by rejuvenation, selection and development in a greenhouse before harvesting. Nova said the method combined efficiency with environmental awareness.
“Because the farm is located close to consumers’ kitchens, the carbon footprint is reduced. This makes the concept of urban farming even more relevant in the modern era,” he added.
Governor Pramono’s Visit and Government Support
Governor Pramono visited Ladang Farm in late September, accompanied by senior city officials including Suharini Eliawati, Assistant for Economics and Finance, Hasudungan Sidabalok, Head of the Jakarta Food Security, Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Agency, and South Jakarta Mayor M. Anwar.
He said he first learned of the farm through social media and was impressed by its concept.
“What makes me happy is that they also involve the local community, especially women, in working here. From preparing the seeds and caring for the plants to the next stage. This kind of creativity is extraordinary because it creates jobs for residents. Moreover, the harvest is entirely purchased by various restaurants in Jakarta,” Pramono told Koran Jakarta.
The governor said the Jakarta Provincial Government intended to support the farm’s sustainability, particularly by reducing reliance on conventional energy. Plans include providing solar panels to lower electricity costs, which are currently a major expense.
Ladang Farm now produces up to two tonnes of vegetables each month.
