In Astara District, Azerbaijan, a significant agricultural initiative is unfolding with the cultivation of exotic fruits previously not grown locally. Supported by the Entrepreneurship Development Fund of Azerbaijan's Ministry of Economy, the project has secured a one million manat loan to establish orchards covering 130 hectares.
The first phase, nearing completion, includes 45 hectares of avocado orchards and 10 hectares of new lemon varieties in Shyuvlyu and Degedi villages. Notably, the project also includes a pioneering effort to grow bananas in open fields using frost-resistant varieties.
To protect these plants from adverse weather conditions, advanced systems have been installed. Additionally, greenhouses are being constructed for dragon fruit and papaya cultivation.
The project aims to reduce Azerbaijan's dependency on imported tropical fruits and expects to begin selling and exporting locally-grown produce as early as next year.
Source: azertag.az