Lori province has untapped potential for organic farming, specialist says
Lori province of Armenia has untapped potential for development of organic farming, since its conditions are very favorable, President of Green Lane Agricultural Assistance NGO Nune Sarukhanyan said on Monday at a meeting with farmer groups and villagers engaged in organic farming.
“Lori is known for its fertile soil, despite the fact the area has the risks of all natural disasters except siltation. Ash is a great disinfectant for the soil, while cow manure becomes a nutrient-rich fertilizer when turned into compost. Irregular shaped vegetables are an indication of bad soil.” Sarukhanyan noted.
In her words, basic preconditions for developing organic agriculture are connected with the area and irrigation, while the landscapes should be away from highways, dangerous factories, and mines.
“Lady bird is considered the symbol of organic farming. Whenever you meet those beetles in the lands and plantations, be sure the soil and the plants are clean,” the specialist said, adding green agriculture is gradually developing in Armenia with some 19 thousand ha licensed lands available today for organic farming.