Fourteen farmers in Dominica are using fertigation and ground cover techniques through an FAO project to improve yields and high-value vegetable production.
Dominica: The Ministry of Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy has reported progress in improved farming practices, sharing that 14 farmers have adopted fertigation and ground cover techniques to improve production and increase high-value crop yields across the island.
According to the Ministry of Agriculture, the advancement is part of a collaborative initiative between the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) TCP/DOM/4001 Project titled Improving Livelihoods through Diversified High-Value Vegetable Production in Selected Agroclimatic Zones!
The Ministry has confirmed that 14 of the farmers in Dominica are currently implementing fertigation and ground cover as part of their farming practices. It noted that these techniques play an important role in improving efficiency, supporting healthier crop production, ensuring consistency and producing market-ready crops.
According to the information provided, fertigation is helping farmers apply nutrients more efficiently through irrigation while reducing labour requirements and the use of ground cover helps to control weeds, retain soil moisture and promote healthier crops.
The Ministry has shared the ongoing progress on Facebook, underscoring its importance in strengthening the island's crop production and creating greater opportunities for the farmers in Dominica.
It highlighted the progress being made by South Region farmers Diane Joseph and Glennis Isles, while expressing anticipation for the upcoming harvests which will include broccoli, cauliflower, bell peppers and tomatoes, among other crops.
"Exciting strides are being made under the strong partnership and collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). From improved production practices to promising crops, these farmers are showing what is possible when innovation meets agriculture. More efficient. More productive. More marketable. More opportunities for our farmers," shared the Ministry of Agriculture.
Citizens have taken to the comments section where they have expressed their views on the initiative, with some happy to see the advancement in the agricultural sector and others inquiring whether the methods have any negative impact on the soil.