In Cherkasy's greenhouses, as of early March, seedlings have already sprouted. The cost of vegetable cultivation has increased in 2024, making price forecasting challenging, according to agronomist Ruslan Velychko.
Despite the calendar indicating March, the greenhouses experience April-like weather. Velychko reports radishes sprouting, while cabbage and onions have begun to green, with radishes expected for sale in 25 days.
Crops include radishes, cabbage, peppers, aubergines, and onions, each with its planting schedule. Onions were planted in early February, while aubergines and peppers are slated for late April due to temperature sensitivity. Planting involves seeding in plastic cassettes, with up to 13,000 plants planted per day.
Labor shortage poses a significant challenge, with Velychko emphasizing the reliance on manual labor.
In comparison with the previous year, 2023, everything has become much more expensive, starting from seed material and ending with plant protection means. To grow a hectare of onions – from seeding, soil treatment, and fertilizer application to harvest by hand – requires approximately 6000–7000 euros.
Last year, oversupply led to selling vegetables at cost, but this year's market dynamics remain uncertain, possibly impacting pricing strategies.
As for this year, we do not know. Much depends on whether vegetables will be exported or remain in Ukraine. Despite uncertainties, Velychko remains optimistic about meeting domestic demand.
Source: suspilne.media