Potatoes 'linked' to thrive in the highlands of Tuong Duong.

Thanh Phuc• March 1, 2024 09:32

(Baonghean.vn) - By switching from less efficient crops such as cassava and corn to potato cultivation through a business partnership model, farmers in the highlands of Tuong Duong have had a bumper winter-spring harvest. This has opened up a new direction in agricultural production for the people here.

During the 2023-2024 winter-spring season, Chan village (Thach Giam town, Tuong Duong district) collaborated with the Vietnam Institute of Agricultural Biology to grow commercial potatoes. Photo: TP

The collaborative farming area covers 5 hectares with 38 participating households. Participants in the model receive support in the form of seeds and fertilizers on a deferred payment basis; and receive technical training from planting to harvesting. (Photo: TP)

In particular, the model is equipped with automatic sprinkler irrigation systems, helping people access technology in agricultural production. Photo: TP

By the end of February 2024, 5 hectares of potatoes were ready for harvest. The estimated yield is 14-15 tons/ha. Photo: TP

Initial assessments indicate that the potato crop is well-suited to the local soil and climate, resulting in high yields and quality. (Photo: TP)

Mr. Vang Van Binh, a resident of Chan village participating in the model, said: “I cultivated 2 sao (approximately 2,000 square meters) of potatoes. By strictly following the planting and care procedures and techniques, the yield reached 1.5 tons. I sold nearly 1 ton of high-quality potatoes to businesses, and the rest was used as seeds for the next season and sold on the market. After deducting expenses, I made a profit of 8-9 million VND. Compared to other crops, potatoes have a higher economic value.” (Photo: TP)

Farmers in Chan village sort potatoes before weighing and selling them to businesses. Photo: TP

After harvesting, the potatoes that meet commercial quality standards are purchased by businesses directly from the fields at the agreed-upon price. Photo: TP

Accordingly, 1kg of commercial potatoes is sold at 7,500 VND. “1 hectare of potatoes yields 14-15 tons of tubers, of which about 8 tons meet the standards for import to businesses, and the rest are sold on the market. According to calculations, farmers earn 120-150 million VND per hectare,” said Ms. Luong Thi Hien, Vice Chairman of the People's Committee of Thach Giam town. (Photo: TP)

What farmers are most excited about when participating in the cooperative model is that their products are guaranteed to be bought and sold, eliminating worries about unsold or unsaleable goods. Therefore, many people want to expand the cultivated area and replicate the model. (Photo: TP)

Thanh Phuc