TASHKENT, Uzbekistan – AN Podrobno.uz. In the Kegeyli district of Karakalpakstan, an intensive orchard covering 330 hectares has been established on saline soil, using nearly two and a half times less water than traditional irrigation. The project was presented to President Shavkat Mirziyoyev during his visit to the region.
The initiative is being implemented by ADM Agro, part of ADM Group, which is known for automobile production in the Jizzakh region. The company has decided to develop a new direction in the Aral Sea region – industrial horticulture. The project's cost is estimated at 55 billion soums, and it currently employs 300 local residents.
The orchard is primarily planted with black plum seedlings. On 69 hectares, 250,000 trees of US selection have been planted. This variety is resistant to saline soils and is expected to start bearing fruit in about two years. Each tree is expected to yield up to 50–60 kilograms of fruit. To make efficient use of the land, tomatoes are being grown between the trees, with an anticipated yield of 40–45 tons per hectare.
A key feature of the project is its water supply system. Closed drainage and drip irrigation deliver water directly to the roots, reducing consumption from 12,000 to 5,000 liters per hectare – a nearly 60% decrease. The system also allows for simultaneous application of fertilizers, with plants reportedly absorbing up to 90% of the nutrients applied this way. All processes are automated, so a single operator can manage the vast orchard.
After harvesting, the fruits are planned to be dried and processed on-site, which should increase the value of the final product. Export agreements have already been signed with China, South Korea, and Russia. The experience from the Kegeyli district is intended to be replicated in other parts of Karakalpakstan. The authorities aim to expand intensive orchards in the region to 10,000 hectares and create around 40,000 permanent and seasonal jobs. During his visit, the president also spoke with local farmers.
Source: podrobno.uz