In Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka, the Department of Agrarian Development has initiated an export-oriented strawberry cultivation project that has shown promising results. This initiative, marking the first government-implemented strawberry agri-model in the country, involves 52 farmers across 40 greenhouses.
Since its commencement two months ago, the project has seen the distribution of strawberry plants from Egypt to local farmers, with the Department providing both financial and technical support. The cultivation utilizes 1000 square feet tunnel houses offered to farmers at a 25 percent concession, requiring them to cover a quarter of the costs while the Department covers the remaining 75 percent.
Strawberry cultivation in Sri Lanka is geographically limited to Nuwara Eliya and its vicinity, a region now entering the flowering season with harvest anticipated in about one and a half months. The project's next phase will explore high-density cultivation methods to potentially increase yield.
Modern agricultural techniques, including the use of grow bags and drip irrigation, are recommended to farmers, with a focus on involving the youth in cultivation. The Minister of Agriculture and Plantation Industry, Mr. Mahinda Amaraweera, has assured continued support for strawberry cultivation and other high-demand crops, emphasizing the organized approach and public sector involvement in this high-income generating venture.
Source: dailynews.lk