Local Farmers Successfully Cultivating Foreign Fruits in Ghana
Many Ghanaians who practice backyard farming have defied the traditional belief that foreign fruits like apples, strawberries, pomegranates, and grapes can only thrive in cold climates. Speaking to The Mirror in Accra, some of these backyard farmers revealed that with the right farming practices, it is indeed possible to grow these fruits in Ghana.
Retired Freight Forwarder turned backyard farmer, Mrs. Faustina Alipoe, highlighted how experimentation and specialized care have paved the way for the successful cultivation of these fruits. Despite this success, large-scale farming remains challenging due to the high cost and intensive care required.
Agriculturist and farmer, Abraham Akpakpavi Ahorsu, shed light on the expensive nature of growing foreign fruits like strawberries, grapes, and apples on a large scale. He explained that the cost of seedlings alone could amount to GH¢350 each, excluding additional expenses for soil treatment, fertilizers, and irrigation systems.
One of the reasons for the high cost is that the seedlings are often imported from countries like Kenya, India, USA, or South Africa, making them expensive to procure. Additionally, the need for specific soil mixtures, shading nets, greenhouses, and drip irrigation systems further adds to the expenses.
Mr. Ahorsu emphasized the importance of specialized care, including regular pruning, pest control, and pollination techniques, to ensure the plants thrive. However, the lack of expertise in Ghana and limited government support pose challenges for farmers looking to venture into commercial cultivation of foreign fruits.
Despite these hurdles, small-scale farmers like Mrs. Alipoe have found success in growing fruits like grapes, pomegranates, and apples in their backyards. She emphasized the need for attention, patience, and specific care practices to ensure the fruits thrive.
With the right knowledge and dedication, it is possible for Ghanaians to continue defying the odds and successfully cultivate foreign fruits, contributing to the diversification of the agricultural landscape in the country.
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