Glen Anil employee grows from guard to farmer
The Quarry Heights local is sowing his seeds of hydroponic farming wisdom in his community and among primary school learners.
WHAT began as a job in security has grown into a flourishing career in modern farming.
Three years ago, Yandisa Gilo was working as a security guard at a Glen Anil-based agricultural company known for its innovative farming systems.
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Today, he is an award-nominated hydroponic farmer, educator, and community mentor. Gilo has been nominated in the South African Agricultural Awards under the Agricultural Development and Community Empowerment category.
Gilo, a matric graduate with a lifelong passion for planting, says his love for farming was “amplified” when he saw what the business was doing.
“When someone resigned, my employer, David Gruler, employed me in the business and taught me about hydroponic farming. That moment opened the door to a new career path,” he said.
Given the space and freedom to experiment, Gilo began teaching himself hydroponic farming techniques through YouTube videos and hands-on practise. Soon, he was able to design and build his own hydroponic system – a soil-free method of growing plants using nutrient-rich water.
Art of soil-free farming
Hydroponic farming, he explains, allows plants to grow directly in water infused with essential nutrients. The pH levels are monitored and adjusted ideally around 6.5 — to ensure plants thrive.
“We change the water once a week and add new nutrients and because the plants get nutrients directly from the water, they grow faster and healthier. It also saves a lot of water compared to traditional farming.”
Gilo propagates seeds, nurtures seedlings, and transfers them into his hydroponic systems where they mature into leafy vegetables and fruits.
“Only certain crops can be grown this way, mostly leafy greens and fruiting plants,” he added.
His work has extended beyond the greenhouse. Gilo also teaches learners at Quarry Heights Primary School about sustainable farming and has also formed a partnership with Food and Trees for Africa.
“It’s important that children learn early. The children in my community are so eager to learn. When they see me, they say, ‘Malume, please teach us how to grow veggies.’ I also train people so that they can start their own farms and teach others. That’s how we grow together.”
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