Siem Reap Farmers Achieve Success with "Nannong" Cultivation Using Organic Fertilizer

In Prasat Bakong District, Siem Reap Province, Cambodia, farmers are achieving notable success in cultivating "Nannong" (a type of eggplant) by reducing the use of chemical pesticides and switching to organic fertilizers. This approach offers a viable, year-round crop with market potential, adapted to changing climatic conditions. Ms. Ly Sopheap, a farmer in the district, highlighted the simplicity of Nannong cultivation, noting its suitability for both the rainy and dry seasons without requiring complex care. The key innovation is her shift away from chemical inputs towards organic fertilizers, such as cow dung, which enrich the soil and promote healthy plant growth. Sopheap shared her practical experience, advising farmers to start by properly constructing cultivation sheds and planting seeds mixed with organic fertilizer. During the dry season, regular watering in the morning and evening is crucial to maintain moisture for optimal growth. To ensure fruit quality and consumer safety, she uses chemical pesticides minimally, only when absolutely necessary, particularly when the plants begin to flower. Nannong cultivation has become a significant livelihood for Sopheap, helping to cover up to 50% of her family's daily expenses. She expressed gratitude for the agricultural officials who regularly visit to teach new cultivation techniques. However, she requested continued support from relevant institutions for high-quality seeds and climate-resilient varieties, as well as expanded training on modern cultivation techniques and natural pest management methods to increase yields for broader market supply. Source: AKP Khmer