At Tutu Rural Training Centre (TRTC), a dedicated focus on nursery techniques is driving preparation for next year’s intake of Young Farmers. As part of their training, these young aspiring farmers learn sustainable practices that enhance plant propagation, particularly with essential crops like yaqona (kava). This preparation ensures they gain hands-on experience in smart farming practices that foster healthy plant growth, optimize water usage, and prepare for sustainable agriculture — even in the wake of challenges such as cyclones.
One critical aspect of the nursery practice is the careful selection of yaqona stems for propagation. By choosing quality stems, TRTC aims to provide these new farmers with resilient, high-yielding plants, ultimately resulting in sustainable farms. Current young farmers, alongside TRTC staff, are actively engaged in the preparatory work, from soil preparation to seedling care.
TRTC’s potted yaqona method is gaining traction as an effective way to cultivate healthy planting materials. Potted plants often experience accelerated growth, allowing for a quicker transition to the fields. Additionally, nursery environments provide ideal conditions for the initial stages of vegetative growth, helping seedlings mature faster and reduce the water required for early growth phases. This method is not only resource-efficient but also beneficial for farmers who need resilient plants capable of thriving after extreme weather events.
The nursery environment at TRTC also offers an optimal microclimate for young plants, a critical factor for young farmers to understand. By leveraging nursery techniques, they can produce crops faster and stronger, helping them meet market demands more quickly—a significant advantage after natural disruptions like cyclones.
Through these hands-on learning experiences, TRTC equips young farmers with practical skills that support Fiji’s agricultural future and foster sustainability. This approach is a testament to TRTC’s mission of nurturing knowledgeable and resilient farmers who are well-prepared to make a meaningful impact on rural communities.
