Colombia begins research into growing avocados in pots.
Colombia is investigating the cultivation of avocados in pots
Avocado is one of Colombia's most important agricultural products, and the country is working to improve its production and quality. One of the most promising areas of research is growing avocados in pots.
Growing avocados in pots has several potential benefits. First, it allows cultivation in soils unsuitable for avocados, such as those with a high clay content. Second, it allows for greater control over the crop, which can improve productivity and fruit quality.
The Colombian company Cartama, one of the country's leading avocado producers, has been researching pot cultivation for several years. The company's research and development coordinator, Sara Bedoya, explains that the preliminary results are very positive.
“The plants have developed very well and are on a very good growth curve,” says Bedoya. “One of the advantages of this methodology is the control that can be exercised over the plants, such as better phytosanitary management, nutrition, humidity, electrical conductivity and pH in the substrate.”
Bedoya also points out that growing plants in pots can help reduce the use of chemical fertilizers. “By keeping these conditions more controlled, we could potentially achieve better production in the future, as well as more efficient use of synthetic fertilizers,” he says.
The company expects to have its first harvest of potted avocados in two years. If the results continue to be positive, Cartama plans to share its research with other avocado growers in Colombia.
