In Uralsk, Kazakhstan, entrepreneur Gulnar Shabarova has begun harvesting lemons in a unique underground greenhouse, the only citrus-focused facility in the area. Despite the region's harsh continental climate, Shabarova has successfully grown 40 fruit-bearing lemon trees, producing around 400 kg of fruit annually.
The underground greenhouse, developed over a decade, allows precise control of temperature, humidity, and lighting, essential for this climate-sensitive crop. During hot periods, irrigation is weekly, while fertilization occurs monthly. In winter, watering is halted entirely, and excessive heat is avoided. The harvest season runs from November to December.
Shabarova cultivates several lemon varieties, including Tashkent, Kiev, Jubilee, Meyer, and Panderosa, optimizing care through years of experimentation and trial-and-error. The project began as a personal hobby inspired by her father, who grew apples and pears, and gradually evolved into a functional production system.
While the greenhouse started as a private endeavor, surplus lemons are sold locally, valued for being grown in eco-friendly conditions. The facility also has an educational focus: Shabarova invites young naturalists to learn greenhouse management and citrus cultivation techniques, sharing knowledge on lighting, climate control, and plant nutrition.
Employees monitor the greenhouse carefully, adjusting watering and fertilization to plant growth stages and ensuring optimal water and nutrient balance.
Source: 24.kz
