The Qassim region has emerged as a forefront producer of strawberries and blueberries within Saudi Arabia, rivaling the quality of international imports, as reported by the Saudi Press Agency. This advancement is attributed to the local farmers' drive towards innovation, modernization, and the development of quality local varieties.
Agricultural engineer Saleh Ibrahim Al-Keaid shared insights with the SPA on the evolution towards high-quality berry production in Qassim. This progression entailed a commitment to organic farming practices, ensuring the safety of all utilized fertilizers and pesticides. Al-Keaid highlighted the rigorous research and international collaboration that underpinned this achievement, stating, "We spent a full year experimenting with different varieties and agricultural elements to achieve our current success."
The adoption of advanced hydroponic systems has been central to this success, featuring vertical farming towers that can reach up to seven levels, employing volcanic rock substrates and top-down irrigation methods. These innovations not only support the cultivation of premium quality berries that compete with American and European standards in terms of quality, size, and yield but also introduce significant efficiencies in water use and production capacity. Al-Keaid noted an 80 percent reduction in water consumption and a substantial increase in production capacity over traditional soil-based methods. A single 360 sq. meter greenhouse can house up to 9,000 seedlings, markedly enhancing space efficiency and reducing the labor and resources needed for plant care.
This holistic approach to berry farming in the Qassim region underscores the potential of high-tech greenhouse cultivation in producing premium, sustainable, and locally-grown fruits, setting a benchmark for agricultural innovation in Saudi Arabia.
Source: Arab News