Crop rotation

In the face of challenging circumstances, Ukrainian agricultural producers are demonstrating resilience and determination as they embark on the crucial sowing season. Recognizing the significance of their role in ensuring both food security and economic stability for the nation, farmers are navigating uncertainties with a commitment to maximizing their efforts.

Andrey Verteba, a farmer situated 150 km from Kyiv, exemplifies this spirit. Specializing in pumpkin cultivation during peacetime, he now acknowledges the uncertainty surrounding exports.

Despite this, he remains undeterred, intending to sow pumpkins on a smaller scale, up to 10 hectares. Winter wheat has already found its place in part of his land, and Verteba contemplates a significant allocation for soybeans this year.

However, the absence of herbicides poses a challenge, making the purchase of resources impossible at present.

«I lack everything for the sowing campaign: fuel, no herbicide at all. Pumpkin seeds have not been sold, so there are no funds to purchase resources,» notes Andrey Verteba, emphasizing the hardships faced by farmers.

Expressing a strong sense of patriotism and optimism, Verteba believes in overcoming challenges and declares, «I believe that we will break through. Victory is ours. Glory to Ukraine! Death to the enemies! APU is strength!»

Natalya Tabinskaya, co-founder of the Field of Happiness SFG and head of the Farmers’ Motherland and the Farmers’ Country agricultural center, sheds light on the proactive plans of Lviv farmers.

They aim to increase the sown area under spring crops by nearly 1,000 hectares this season. Additionally, small farmers in the region are strategizing to diversify their crops, anticipating the challenges ahead.
A farmer from Lviv underlines the need to retrain for strategic products such as potatoes, wheat, and sugar beets.

Recognizing the inevitability of a crisis, he anticipates that international aid might provide assistance, but he emphasizes the need for self-sufficiency in essential products like flour and sugar.

As Ukrainian farmers navigate uncertainties and challenges, their determination to contribute to the nation’s food security remains unwavering. The strategic choices and adaptability showcased by these farmers underscore their crucial role in sustaining both local communities and the broader economic landscape of Ukraine.