Hopetown grows onions
A number of farmers from Hopetown Village and the West Berbice environs, were on hand to witness the harvesting of onions grown in the village under the PROPEL initiative.
PROPEL, The Promotion of Regional Opportunities for Produce through Enterprises and Linkages, is a Canadian funded project connecting fresh produce buyers in the region and beyond with Caribbean farmers, processors and related businesses. And, the project is implemented by WUSC, World University Services of Canada, with the financial support of donors, and the Government of Canada. The WUSC Caribbean works with a range of market actors including buyers, producers, input suppliers, research institutes, extension service providers, and Governments, as the project seeks to promote the absorption of fresh Caribbean produce into high-value national, regional and international markets. And, as part of the project, individuals in various parts of Guyana have been receiving relevant support in the production of onions and other crops. While PROPEL has been in operation in Guyana since 2012, the onion initiative was launched just about two years ago with projects in Regions Three, Five, Six, and Ten, seeking to encourage gender equality and youth participation, as well as environmental sustainability and good governance. A number of volunteers were identified to produce seedlings, and farmers identified were provided with seedlings, chemicals, and technical support for the production of onions, and last Friday, officials from WUSC together with other farmers descended on a farm in Hopetown, West Coast Berbice, to witness the harvesting of onions produced by a female participant. According to the farmer, she received about 600 plants as a start. She also received chemicals from the project coordinators, and there were regular visits from technical staff who offered advice where necessary. Comparing the harvest with a few crops harvested earlier, one officer said that the yield was better, attributing it to the nature of the soil, noting that onions require loose soil which allows larger bulbs. The officer also pointed out that onion which matures in about ninety days, should be planted at a time which would allow for most of the maturing stage to be during the dry season. Too much moisture could lead to bulbs developing soft rot. Onion is best grown in the open rather than in shady areas. (Kaieteurnews.com)