Baja California strengthens vegetable production with protected agriculture

Baja California (Mexico) farmers have planted 591.5 hectares of tomatoes and cucumbers using protected agriculture methods, according to José Antonio Ramírez Gómez, state representative of the Secretariat of Agriculture and Rural Development (SADER). This approach, which uses plastic covers, shade mesh, and other materials, allows producers to control temperature, humidity, and light to improve crop conditions.

During the current cycle, tomatoes account for 423 hectares and cucumbers for 168.5 hectares, mostly in the agricultural fields of CADERS Ensenada, reported Fernando Sánchez Galicia, head of the Sustainable Rural Development District (DDR 001). This protected surface represents about 20% of the 2,976.5 hectares currently planted with various crops in the region.

The remaining 2,385 hectares are planted using conventional open‑field methods, mainly with chili peppers and onions, along with other export vegetables such as tomatoes. By surface area, chili leads with 419 hectares, followed by onions with 238, tomatoes with 159, zucchini with 112, strawberries with 68, cucumbers with 52, and corn with 28 hectares. Various other vegetables occupy 1,309 hectares.

So far, 107 hectares have been harvested, including 4 hectares of corn and 103 hectares of assorted vegetables. Officials say protected agriculture continues to expand, helping farmers improve yields and reduce risks from changing weather conditions.

source: periodismonegro.mx

photo: jardinedia.com