The Mittleider Method is transforming the way people think about gardening—especially when space, soil, or climate presents a challenge. Developed by horticulturist Dr. Jacob Mittleider, this system combines the science of hydroponics with the simplicity of soil-based gardening.
It’s engineered for maximum productivity, no matter where you live. Whether you’re gardening on a rooftop, in a narrow backyard, or even over concrete, the Mittleider Method allows you to grow abundant food efficiently, affordably, and sustainably.
Rethinking the Ground Beneath Your Feet
Traditional gardening relies heavily on fertile soil, but the Mittleider Method eliminates that dependency. It starts by transforming the growing medium.
You can choose a soil-based bed—amended with sand and sawdust to enhance drainage and aeration—or opt for a grow box, which is a bottomless container filled with a custom mix of 65% sawdust and 35% sand. These setups are designed to hold nutrients effectively and allow optimal root development, even if the native soil is poor, rocky, or nonexistent.
This makes the method uniquely suited to urban and underserved areas, where good soil is often scarce or completely unavailable. Gardeners can literally grow food on a slab of concrete or a rooftop, converting underutilized space into thriving food systems. CONTINUE READING