Free Training on Improved Techniques of Vegetable Production, Farmers Way to Success – Free training of farmers on the improved techniques of vegetable production is one important aspect of the “Year-round Vegetable Production Project,” a collaborative program of the Department of Agrarian Reform, local governments units, and East-West Seed Company. Currently, the project is implemented in the six towns of the province of Bohol that include Balilihan, Antequera, Catigbian, San Isidro, Trinidad and Ubay.
Techniques to be taught include the use of high-quality varieties, proper land preparation, use of seedling tray in producing seedlings, use of plastic mulch (to suppress weeds, conserve moisture and prevent waterlogging during rainy months), integrated pest and disease management, right fertilization, and marketing. The attendees can also learn how to make their own organic fertilizer.
Under the scheme, the DAR will shoulder the expenses of the technology transfer from specialist of East-West Seed Company who will conduct the free training. In each town, a cluster of 25 trainees will be trained through lectures as well as hands-on practice on the different aspects of vegetable production. The training consists of 14 weekly session. After the training, the farmers will undertake their vegetable production projects in their own or on rented land.
Trainees who don’t have enough money to pursue their own vegetable projects can get loan from the proponents. But instead of cash loan, farmers will be given inputs such as seeds, plastic seedling tray, plastic mulch, fertilizer and other inputs that they will pay upon selling their harvests.
Farmer trainees have a great opportunity to succeed in their projects because the East-West Seed technician will continuously provide technical assistance in taking care of their vegetables.