In Joypurhat, more growers are adopting cocopeat seedlings as a sustainable alternative to traditional soil, aiming to boost vegetable yields while minimizing chemical inputs. Cocopeat, derived from coconut husks, serves as an effective soil substitute, enhancing moisture retention and promoting rapid seedling growth. This shift is not only improving productivity but also aligning with Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) and reducing the reliance on chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
Md Ripon Miah, a local grower, has experienced firsthand the benefits of cocopeat in his vegetable cultivation. Transitioning to cocopeat seedlings has enabled him to market his aubergines significantly earlier compared to using soil-grown seedlings, alongside noticeable cost savings from reduced chemical usage. The higher quality and market demand for vegetables grown from cocopeat seedlings further endorse this method's efficacy.
The Department of Agricultural Extension, alongside various government and non-governmental organizations, is actively promoting this eco-friendly cultivation practice. Initiatives like the Rural Microenterprise Transformation Project (RMTP), supported by international and local funding, are instrumental in encouraging pesticide-free vegetable production across Joypurhat and beyond. With a substantial number of grower participating, preliminary results indicate a notable increase in income through environmentally friendly farming practices.
Growers like Manik Hossain and Md Masud Rana are witnessing remarkable results with cocopeat seedlings, from improved crop health and yield to enhanced soil quality through reduced chemical dependency. The local agricultural sector's transition towards cocopeat seedlings is further supported by the burgeoning demand for these seedlings, underscoring their effectiveness in producing safer and higher-quality vegetables.
Read more at The Business Standard