Crops – Fresh Studio

DRIP IRRIGATION TO RESPOND TO THE RISK OF GROUNDWATER DEPLETION

Posted on April 25, 2025April 25, 2025 by Luyen

Improving water use efficiency for shallot production in Soc Trang province

An important objective of the Impact Cluster project: “Transition towards sustainable shallot value chains in the Mekong Delta”, is to improve the water use efficiency of shallot production in Soc Trang province. By improving the water use efficiency, the amount of ground water extracted can be reduced, reducing the impact of ground water extraction on land subsidence in Soc Trang province. As part of the project activities, Can Tho University as implemented at 6 irrigation demonstration locations trials to compare various irrigation methods and the impact on shallot production and water use efficiency. Drip irrigation was identify as the best system in terms of yield, quality and water use efficiency. A reduction of > 40% in water used to irrigate shallots was achieved with better quality and yield. A nice article was published in Nong Nghiep Moi Truong newspaper about the irrigation trials and results. Enjoy ready this article below.

Soc Trang faced with the risk of declining groundwater resources, Vinh Chau farmers want to convert to drip irrigation to save water, reduce costs and improve crop yields.

Risk of groundwater depletion

The sandy land of Vinh Chau town (Soc Trang) province is a specialized farming place shallot the largest in the country with an annual area of up to 7,000 hectares. Irrigation water for production here is mainly exploited from groundwater. However, in the face of the effects of climate change and overexploitation, groundwater resources are seriously declining.

According to Dr. Dang Kieu Nhan – Director of Mekong Delta Development Research Institute (Can Tho University), groundwater in the Mekong Delta, it is not replenished in situ but originates from the Southeast and the Cambodian Delta with a very slow movement speed. Meanwhile, the increasing demand for groundwater for agricultural farming and domestic purposes makes the water replenishment insufficient to compensate for the quantity extracted, the, leads to the risk of depletion.

In Vinh Chau town, in the past, farmers only needed to drill wells at a certain depth, then place pipes and pump water for irrigation. However, now, with that same depth, the water is no longer enough to pump, forcing farmers to place pipes deeper, at the same time, it must be inflated down to create pressure to push water up.

According to Mr. Chau Van Thang –, Deputy Head of Agriculture and Environment Department of Vinh Chau town, every year during the local dry season, there is no water shortage because people find ways to get groundwater. Previously, people only needed to use one motor to absorb water, but now they have to use additional bellows to pump water at a depth of about 50m. If the water is still not enough, people increase the depth to 70 – 80m and use 2 more motors.

Due to sandy soil properties, digging water storage ponds in Vinh Chau is very difficult to do. Some households have adopted tarpaulin solutions to store water, but the amount of water stored is still very limited. This poses a big challenge for agricultural production, especially for farmers who grow shallot. Without effective irrigation water solutions, the risk of future shortages of produced water is very high.

Drip irrigation system outlook

In 2024, The Mekong Delta Development Research Institute cooperates with the Department of Agriculture and Environment of Vinh Chau town and a number of partners to implement the project to convert to the operating value chain sustainable purple in the Mekong Delta. The project, funded by the Dutch Enterprise Agency (RVO), lasts for 2 years. One of the project’s highlights is technical transfer drip irrigation add shallot.

This system is considered to have many advantages such as saving irrigation water; reduce labor costs; limit fertilizer loss; reduce the impact of wind and do not wet onion leaves… This helps farmers improve productivity compared to traditional hand irrigation methods.

This system uses mini swivels and drip wires from 12 – 15mm diameter, with about 3 – 4 drip wires/drip wires (depending on soil type). According to calculations by experts from the Mekong Delta Research and Development Institute, the total investment cost of drip irrigation system is about 8.2 million VND/ha, while the hand irrigation method costs about 11 million VND/ha (, installing machinery and labor irrigates). Thus, farmers can save nearly 2.8 million VND/ha when converting to this irrigation method.

Test results at several models in Vinh Chau town showed that the breed Vinh Chau shallot traditionally using hand irrigation, the yield is about 14.3 tons/ha. With the drip irrigation technique, onion yield increased to 15.1 tons/ha, offering great prospects.

Thach Son farmers in cluster 6, ward 1, Vinh Chau town are cultivating 2,000 square meters of shallot. Currently, his method of irrigating onion fields is mainly pumping from groundwater. On average, every month he has to spend around 700,000 VND in electricity to pump irrigation water, not including the cost of hiring workers.

In the dry season, the pumped water is very weak, causing many difficulties for production. Mr. Son rated: “Drip irrigation system is very suitable for family conditions because the investment cost is not too high, farmers are not extreme, have other working hours”.

Similarly, Mr. Huynh Xu Khang lives in group 6 together, ward 1 is planting 5,000m2 of shallot with 2 varieties of traditional Vinh Chau shallot and Maserati F1 shallot (a new experimental variety).

8 years ago, when testing plant Maserati F1 shallot, Mr. Khang continuously encountered failures due to improper irrigation techniques, causing onion leaves to be damaged and pathogens to arise.

However, since 2024, when applying the drip irrigation system transferred by the Mekong Delta Research and Development Institute, onion fields have shown positive results, and trees have grown evenly, the roots are deeply ingrained, limiting water stagnation on the leaves.

“The investment cost of drip irrigation system is not high. If hiring hand irrigation labor costs about 4 million VND/1,000m2, and investing in drip irrigation systems ranges from 2 – 3.5 million VND (installation supplies)”, Mr. Khang said.

Looking carefully at each onion bush, Mr. Thach Tien – member of Hoa Thanh Vegetable Cooperative (Hoa Thanh, Lac Hoa commune, Vinh Chau town) commented, when watering hands, observe that the surface of the field is standing, but using equipment to check the moisture in the soil is not enough. Besides, due to strong spray water pressure, onion leaves break, fall, and easily spread pathogens. At that time, even if farmers treated with plant protection products, they were also washed away by water, which was not effective.

According to Mr. Tien, applying the drip irrigation technique, onion leaves are not wet much, but the moisture in the soil is enough, and the plant grows well. In the next onion, he plans to install a drip irrigation system to save time, reduce costs, and help improve onion quality.

Besides the drip irrigation method, the introduction of new varieties of Maserati F1 shallot it is also bringing clear results to Vinh Chau farmers. According to Mr. Chau Ba Binh – technical officer of Fresh Studio, this onion variety has a longer growing time than the local variety of about 10 days, but yields 10 – 20% higher%.

The yield of Maserati F1 shallot grown by drip irrigation method is about 19.2 tons/ha, about 4.1 tons/ha higher than traditional purple onion varieties.

Furthermore, the onion quality was also significantly improved. Maserati F1 shallot for large tubers, beautiful color, suitable for consumer tastes, higher selling price than local purple onion from 1,000 – 2,000 VND/kg.

However, some farmers are concerned that growing new onion varieties could affect soil fertility in the long term. Crop rotation and rational use of fertilizers, therefore, farming techniques will be an important factor in ensuring the sustainable development of this model.

Shallot are the main crop of Vinh Chau town. Drip irrigation techniques not only help save water resources but also improve productivity, product quality and income for farmers. In the long term, for this model to be effective, there needs to be strong links between farmers, the, businesses and local authorities to ensure stable output and sustainable market development.

Source: https://nongnghiepmoitruong.vn/tuoi-nho-giot-de-ung-pho-nguy-co-can-kiet-nuoc-ngam-d741851.html

The impact cluster: “Transition towards sustainable shallot value chains in the Mekong Delta” is funded by The Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO) and consists of the following project partners:

Bejo Zaden
Groot & Slot
Royal Brinkman
BvB Substrates
Eurofins
Can Tho University
Fresh Studio

Improving water use efficiency for shallot production in Soc Trang province.

GIC Project Closing Event: A Milestone in Sustainable Agriculture

Posted on March 26, 2025March 26, 2025 by Luyen

The successful conclusion of the GIC Project marks a defining moment in the advancement of sustainable agricultural practices in Vietnam, particularly in the rice and mango value chains. The closing event, held on March 10, 2025, in Can Tho City, gathered key stakeholders, industry experts, and government representatives to reflect on the project’s achievements and discuss its enduring impact on the sector.

A Look Back: The GIC Project’s Journey

Launched in 2022, the Green Innovation Centre Viet Nam is a country package of the Green Innovation Centres in the Agriculture and Food Sector (GIC) Program. This global initiative, funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) under the special initiative ‘One World – No Hunger’, has been jointly implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD) and GIZ. The mango component of the GIC Project was executed by Fresh Studio, focusing on improving sustainability, productivity, and resilience within the mango value chain.

Over the past two years, the project has driven impactful change in the six Mekong Delta provinces by introducing green innovations, strengthening capacity-building programs, and fostering deep collaboration among farmers, enterprises, researchers, and policymakers.

Through its various interventions, the mango component of the GIC Project has successfully trained 1,015 farmers, helping them increase their income by 20%. In collaboration with SOFRI (Southern Horticultural Research Institute), the project has also achieved a remarkable 50% to 80% reduction in post-harvest losses and extended the post-harvest preservation duration to 35–40 days when exporting by sea freight. These advancements pave the way for enhanced global competitiveness and market expansion for Vietnam’s mango industry.

Lasting Impact & Future Prospects

Two years may seem short, but the collective efforts of each actor in the value chain have yielded remarkable achievements. By placing capacity-building at the core and demonstrating the power of innovation, the project’s impact is expected to extend far beyond its official timeline.

Seeing is believing. Many of the implemented practices have set a precedent for broader adoption, encouraging a ripple effect throughout the industry. While the formal project has concluded, the momentum for a more resilient, efficient, and sustainable agricultural system continues. Stakeholders are urged to build on these successes and explore new opportunities for collaboration, ensuring that innovation and sustainability remain at the heart of Vietnam’s agricultural transformation.

The GIC Project Closing Event was not just an endpoint—it was a celebration of progress, a testament to collaboration, and a catalyst for the future of sustainable agriculture. The lessons learned, the innovations introduced, and the partnerships forged will serve as a strong foundation for continued growth and long-term success in the sector.

DeltaVax: STRENGTHENING TRAINING FOR THE PROJECT’S TECHNICAL TEAM

Posted on March 5, 2025March 5, 2025 by Luyen

The pangasius farming industry in the Mekong Delta is facing numerous challenges, from environmental changes and disease outbreaks to increasingly stringent export market requirements. In response to this situation, DeltaVax has emerged as a groundbreaking solution aimed at improving sustainability and optimizing production.

The project is funded by the Netherlands Enterprise Agency, with the participation of partners from the Netherlands, Vietnam, and international organizations, including Fresh Studio, Can Tho University (CTU), De Heus, Pharmaq part of Zoetis, Kytos and Alpha Aqua. Its primary goal is to enhance the capabilities of farmers and technical teams while applying advanced technologies to improve the quality and efficiency of pangasius production.

The Project Focuses on Three Key Aspects:

Providing knowledge and specialized training for farmers and technical teams on sustainable farming methods.
• Enhancing disease prevention for pangasius through aquatic vaccines, water analysis systems, and qPCR diagnostic technology.
Applying advanced water treatment technology to reduce pollution and optimize pond environments.

With this comprehensive approach, DeltaVax aims not only to reduce disease outbreaks and minimize antibiotic use but also to increase productivity and improve the quality of Vietnamese pangasius in the global market.

To achieve this goal, DeltaVax recently conducted a technical training program for its project partners from January 13 to 20, 2025, bringing together experts and technical staff from CTU, Fresh Studio, De Heus, Pharmaq part of Zoetis, Kytos and Alpha Aqua, along with extension officers from the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD).

The training covered in-depth topics, including:

🔹 Pangasius nursing and care techniques – Larval management, advanced nutrition and feeding management, and optimizing survival rates.
🔹 Water quality management – The importance of microbiomes and methods to balance pond ecosystems.
🔹 Disease prevention and fish welfare – Disease identification, biosecurity measures, and vaccination techniques.
🔹 Application of advanced technology – Introduction to Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS), helping conserve resources and reduce environmental impact.

The training sessions took place not only in classrooms but also included practical sessions at laboratories and farms, including Can Tho University, and De Heus Feed Factory and De Heus R&D Farm in Vinh Long Province.

The training program not only equips participants with knowledge but also serves as an initial step toward a sustainable pangasius industry. The trained technical teams will continue to support farmers through on-site coaching and guidance, helping them adopt and effectively apply advanced farming techniques.

As a result, DeltaVax not only provides short-term benefits but also creates a long-lasting impact, improving the quality of Vietnamese pangasius, strengthening its competitiveness in the export market, and driving the aquaculture sector toward sustainable development.

First 2 drain water recycling systems setup in Vietnam showing promising results for water and fertilizer savings.

Posted on January 23, 2025March 18, 2025 by Luyen

In September 2024 pilot systems were established to recycle drain water from 2 sweet pepper growers in Vietnam. Both systems have now been running for several months. Based on the data collected during this period we can see that at one location (Thuy Farm) so far 33% water was saved and 36% fertilizer and at the other location (Garden Mountain) 33% water and 35% fertilizer was saved.

Both drain water recycling systems have been running smoothly since commissioned in September 2024, except for a few hitches during the first few weeks. These hitches could fast be resolved by adjusting some settings. That both VitaLite systems can be accessed from the Netherlands by the technical support team from Ridder Group is very convenient to determine the cause of a problem and to find fast the solution.

Both sweet pepper crops are growing very well and both Vien Son and Garden Mountain are very pleased with the crop performance so far. We expect that in the long-term using a system to recycle drain water will enable farmers to enhance their crop performance as they can further optimize the irrigation and fertigation strategy for their crops. To ensure the nutrient application (fertigation) is in line with the plant requirements, every 2 weeks a water and drain water sample is send to the Netherlands for analysis. Within 4 – 5 days after taking the sample, the water analysis results are available, with is quite fast considering the samples need to send to the Netherlands from Vietnam.

To share the results of the last couple of months and to introduce the technology to recycle drain water to growers in Vietnam we started to organize field days at both pilot locations. The response from the visiting growers shows they are very interested in the technology to recycle drain water and want to explore how to apply this technology at their own farm.

In 2025 we will continue to collect data at both pilot locations and continue to organize field days and training activities. We will also participate at the HortEx fair in HCMC from 12 – 14 March to show the results and meet interested parties.

Based on the current results we are optimistic that we can find more growers in Vietnam to install this technology, making their production more sustainable and profitable.

The project: “Improving water availability and safety through optimized irrigation and fertilizer application by hydroponic growers in Vietnam” implemented under the Partners for Water program.

Project partners:

Ridder Group
Royal Brinkman
HollandDoor
Fresh Studio

For more information about this project please contact:
René van Rensen
Managing Partner – R&D Director Crops
Info@freshstudio.vn

The Partners for Water program is implemented by the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO) on behalf of the Ministries of Infrastructure and Water Management, Foreign Affairs, Economic Affairs and Climate and Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality.

For more information see: www.partnersvoorwater.nl

First pilot locations to recycling drain water established in Vietnam

Posted on September 4, 2024January 22, 2025 by Luyen

With the arrival of 2 VitaLite systems from Ridder Group and water tanks from Royal Brinkman the 2 pilot farmers and the project partners of the project: “Improving water availability and safety through optimized irrigation and fertilizer application by hydroponic growers in Vietnam” implemented under the Partners for Water program, have been very busy to setup and commission 2 systems to collect and recycle drain water. Now that we can collect and recycle drain water at the 2 pilot locations, we start a new phase in the project focusing on sharing knowledge regarding drain water recycling and collecting data to quantify the return on investments, water efficiency and fertilizer savings.

Last week HollandDoor and Fresh Studio organized the first field days to show the drain water recycling system to interested growers and organized several training sessions on irrigation and fertigation strategies in combination with drain water recycling.

Thuy Farm and Garden Mountain are proud to be the first 2 pilot locations where drain water is collected and disinfected and re-used. Both farms acknowledge that although they have expanded their sweet pepper production area in recent years, they worry about the costs of fertilizer application and availability of sufficient irrigation water. Especially at the end of the dry season water availability is becoming an issue in certain areas of Lam Dong province. This is illustrated by the ever-deeper wells being drilled to pump up irrigation water. Through recycling drain water both see the opportunity to save fertilizer and reduce their production costs while at the same time increase their water use efficiency.

Figure 1. Thuy Farm greenhouse with sweet pepper fully setup with drain water collection system.

It is great to see that although the project supports financially around 2,500 m² to start collecting drain water, both farms have invested themselves to expand the area to collect drain water to around 10,000 m² for both locations. They plan to expand the drain water collection area further in the coming period.

*Figure 2. Installation and commission of VitaLite system of Ridder Group at pilot location.*

With the installation of the drain water collection and disinfection system at both locations the project can start to collect data to quantify how fast the investment in a drain water recycling system can be earned back and how much water and fertilizers can be saved. This data is important to convince other farms to invest also in a drain water recycling system. That there are now 2 drain water recycling systems installed and accessible to other growers to see with their own eyes greatly contributes to making growers aware and understand how such a system works and that it is interesting to consider. The great turnout and discussions during the first field days in which growers were invited to visit both pilot drain water recycling locations proved this point.

*Figure 3. Pictures from field days at both pilot locations showing the drain water recycle system to other growers.*

Recycling drain water has an impact on the irrigation and fertilizer strategy a grower applies. For example, it opens the possibility to work with a higher drainage % to optimize crop performance without increasing fertilizer application costs. The ratio of nutrients applied, and the monitoring of nutrients present in the drain water are important points to consider when recycling drain water. Geerten van der Lugt (HollandDoor) together with Lo Xuan Dung (Fresh Studio) trained growers interested in drain water recycling in these aspects.

*Figure 4. Training irrigation and fertilizer application strategy in combination with drain water recycling by Mr. Geerten van der Lugt (HollandDoor) and Mr. Lo Xuan Dung (Fresh Studio)*

For more information about this project please contact:

René van Rensen

Managing Partner – R&D Director Crops
Info@freshstudio.vn

For more information see: www.partnersvoorwater.nl

Promoting Sustainable Shallot Farming in the Mekong Delta

Posted on May 31, 2024May 31, 2024 by Ngô Khoa

The Mekong Delta River is renowned for its shallot production in Vietnam. However, traditional farming methods have posed significant challenges to the environment and farmers’ livelihoods. The impact cluster: “Transition towards sustainable shallot value chains in the Mekong Delta” is aiming to build the sustainable shallot value chain in this area.

Farmers are open to more sustainable farming practices

As mentioned in the news report of VTV4, initially met with skepticism, innovative and sustainable shallot farming practices are gradually accepted by farmers. By encouraging farmers to try the drip irrigation, integrated pest management (IPM) and the new shallot variety named Maserati F1, farmers are convinced with the immidiate results: reduced water consumption, lower input costs, and improved crop yields.

Mr. Sang’s success story is not an isolated incident. Many farmers, hesitant at first, are now witnessing the positive outcomes of the new shallot variety and modern farming techniques. The project’s emphasis on farmer-to-farmer knowledge sharing has proven to be a powerful tool in overcoming initial resistance and fostering a sense of community among the farmers.

A Collaborative Effort for a Sustainable Future

By transforming shallot farming practices, the project is contributing to a brighter future for farmers, the environment, and consumers. The collaboration between Fresh Studio, Can Tho University, Dutch agricultural experts, and local cooperatives exemplifies the power of collective action in driving positive change. By combining scientific knowledge, technological innovation, and community engagement, it demonstrates a holistic approach to addressing the complex challenges facing the agricultural sector.

The impact cluster: “Transition towards sustainable shallot value chains in the Mekong Delta” is funded by The Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO) and consists of the following project partners:

Bejo Zaden
Groot & Slot
Royal Brinkman
BvB Substrates
Eurofins
Can Tho University
Fresh Studio

Launching Of Post Harvest Center For Vietnamese Fruit Sector And SOP Training For Mango Varieties To Extend Storage Time At SOFRI

Posted on April 22, 2024April 22, 2024 by Ngô Khoa

To strengthen the value chain of mango production in the Mekong Delta, the ceremony for the inauguration of the Post Harvest Center for Vietnamese Fruit Sector and the training of Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for mango varieties was held at the Southern Horticulture Research Institute (SOFRI). This event the establishment of the Post Harvest Center and SOP’s are part of the project: “Strengthening the mango value chain in the Mekong Delta” under the program Green Innovation Centers (GIC) for the agriculture and food sector (Vietnam country package).

Launching Of Post Harvest Center For Vietnamese Fruit Sector

The Mekong Delta region of Vietnam is renowned for its fertile lands and favorable climate, ideal for the cultivation of a variety of fruits, with mangoes being one of the most prominent. However, despite the abundance of produce, challenges in post-harvest management and storage have often led to significant losses in quality and quantity, thereby impacting the livelihoods of farmers and the overall value chain.

Recognizing the need to address these challenges, Fresh Studio, in partnership with GIZ through the Green Innovation Center initiative, embarked on a project to strengthen the mango value chain in the region. The establishment of the Post Harvest Center for Vietnamese Fruit stands as a testament to their commitment to fostering innovation and sustainable practices within the agricultural sector.

At the heart of the ceremony was the training of Standard Operating Procedures tailored specifically for key mango varieties In Mekong delta such as Cat Hoa Loc mango, Cat Chu mango, Tuong Da Xanh mango and Keo mango, aimed at extending their storage life. This comprehensive training program equipped participants with the knowledge and skills, including the post-harvest issues such as sap burn on mango, anthracnose control and stem rot prevention and how to implement best practices in post-harvest handling, storage, and transportation.

Over 100 participants consisting of scientists, agricultural officers from the Plant Protection Department, companies active within the fruit sector , cooperatives and farmers, joined the event. The event featured insightful discussions, practical demonstrations, and hands-on training sessions, ensuring that participants gained practical insights that could be directly applied in their operations.

The collaboration between Fresh Studio,, GIZ, and SOFRI underscores the importance of public-private partnerships in driving sustainable development initiatives. By leveraging expertise, resources, and networks, these organizations have paved the way for transformative change within the agricultural landscape of the Mekong Delta.

The Post Harvest Center for Vietnamese Fruit serves as a hub for knowledge exchange, research, and innovation, empowering farmers and stakeholders with the tools and technologies needed to optimize post-harvest practices. Through initiatives like these, the potential for value addition, market access, and income generation within the agricultural sector is greatly enhanced, ultimately contributing to the socio-economic development of rural communities.

As the ceremony concluded, there was a palpable sense of optimism and determination amongst participants. Armed with newfound knowledge and skills, they departed with a renewed sense of purpose, ready to implement sustainable practices and drive positive change within their communities.

The Green Innovation Centre Viet Nam is a country package of the Green Innovation Centres in the Agriculture and Food Sector (GIC) Program. This global program is funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) within the framework of the special initiative ‘One world – No Hunger’. The GIC Viet Nam Project is jointly implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD) and GIZ.

Embracing Integrated Pest Management for Sustainable Shallot Cultivation

Posted on April 10, 2024April 10, 2024 by Ngô Khoa

In a significant stride towards sustainable agriculture and enhanced crop health, the Impact Cluster Shallot project recently organized a comprehensive training program on Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for shallot cultivation. This initiative, in collaboration with Fresh Studio and the Soc Trang Department of Crop Plant and Plant Protection, marked a pivotal moment for shallot farmers in the region, aiming at equipping them with advanced, sustainable farming techniques.

Integrated Pest Management: the holistic approach focused on sustainable pest control

The training saw the participation of 150 shallot farmers, who gathered to enrich their knowledge and skills in effective pest management, a crucial aspect of shallot farming. The presence of esteemed lecturers from Can Tho University further elevated the training, bringing in a wealth of expertise and research-backed insights into the IPM strategies tailored specifically for shallot crops.

Integrated Pest Management is a holistic approach focused on sustainable pest control, minimizing the reliance on chemical pesticides while maximizing the health and productivity of crops. By understanding the ecosystem and the life cycles of pests, IPM allows farmers to implement strategies that are not only environmentally friendly but also economically viable.

During the training, participants were introduced to a variety of topics, including the identification of common pests in shallot cultivation, the use of biological control agents, cultural practices to prevent pest outbreaks, and the judicious use of chemical pesticides as a last resort. Practical sessions provided hands-on experience in monitoring pest populations and implementing IPM strategies effectively.

A Glimpse into the Impact Cluster Shallot Project Training

This initiative is part of the broader objectives of the Impact Cluster Shallot project to enhance the sustainability and profitability of shallot farming in the region. By adopting IPM, farmers can significantly reduce their input costs, minimize environmental impact, and produce healthier, more resilient crops. This not only benefits the farmers themselves but also contributes to the well-being of the community and the ecosystem at large.

The enthusiasm and engagement of the participants underscored the growing awareness and willingness among farmers to adopt more sustainable practices. The training provided them with the tools and confidence to transition towards IPM, promising a future of more sustainable, productive, and environmentally friendly shallot cultivation.

As the Impact Cluster Shallot project continues to unfold, its emphasis on education, collaboration, and sustainable agriculture practices sets a precedent for similar initiatives worldwide. The success of this training program highlights the critical role of knowledge transfer and capacity building in transforming agricultural practices and ensuring food security and sustainability for future generations.

Tropical hybrid shallot variety Maserati gaining traction in Vietnam

Posted on February 15, 2024September 25, 2024 by Ngô Khoa

The successful introduction and adoption of the hybrid tropical shallot variety Maserati by Vietnamese shallot farmers in the Mekong delta is a crucial component of the impact cluster: “Transition towards sustainable shallot value chains in the Mekong Delta”.

The first successful harvest of Maserati in Vietnam

To demonstrate the added value of Maserati over 15 demonstration fields with local farmers were established to collect data to quantify yield and other agronomical performance indicators of Maserati and to showcase the results to local shallot farmers.

The first harvests of the new shallot production season started this month (January 2024) in Tra Vinh and Soc Trang province. An ideal moment to check and compare the performance of the tropical hybrid shallot variety Maserati in the field by teams of Bejo, De Groot & Slot and Fresh Studio and to organize the first fields days of the season to showcase Maserati to local shallot farmers.

Figure 1. First harvest of Maserati of the new shallot season in the Mekong Delta of Vietnam.

Figure 2. Excellent colour and bulb size of Maserati.

Figure 3. Inspection of field with Maserati by Bejo, Groot & Slot and Fresh Studio.

First demonstration fields being harvested showed higher yield results and larger average bulb size of Maserati compared with the local shallot variety. Especially mini bulbs produced from Maserati seeds earlier in the year, showed very good results. On pungency and taste Maserati scored at least similar or better compared to the local shallot variety.

Most important is however that shallot farmers are enthusiastic about Maserati. During the field days organized at 2 different locations this was clearly the case and farmers showed their interest in planting more Maserati for the coming season. Through direct cooperation with local shallot farmers, cooperatives and traders the project partners will further upscale the production of Maserati seedlings and mini bulbs for the next shallot season.

Figure 4. Shallot farmers harvest and inspect the quality and yield of Maserati.

Figure 5. Mr. Dung from Bejo Vietnam presenting Maserati to shallot farmers.

Exciting possibilities await in 2024

Directly after the Vietnamese New Year (TET) celebrations the project will continue with further training activities and field days in the shallot production areas. Besides highlighting Maserati other topics, such adaptation of innovative and sustainable production practices, such as sprinkler or drip irrigation, irrigation decision support tools, fertilizer application advise, and integrated pest and diseases management will be addressed.

Figure 6. Happy impact cluster shallot partners at Maserati demonstration field.

After TET marketing activities to support the sales of Maserati in the market will also start. As local shallot traders in Vietnam have the tendency to try to control the market or are conservative, they are often not very eager to try to develop a new variety. Through marketing activities more market demand and linkage with the end market will be created to stimulate local shallot traders to prefer buying Maserati over local shallot varieties.

Bejo Zaden
Groot & Slot
Royal Brinkman
BvB Substrates
Eurofins
Can Tho University
Fresh Studio

Study Tour Mango Sector in Thailand

Posted on January 29, 2024January 29, 2024 by Ngô Khoa

From 14 – 18 January 2024, Fresh Studio organized a study tour to the mango sector in Thailand for Vietnamese partners in the project: “Strengthening the mango value chain in the Mekong Delta” under the program Green Innovation Centers (GIC) for the agriculture and food sector (Vietnam country package). A delegation of 18 representatives from cooperatives, companies, and agriculture officers partnering in the project joined the study tour.

The valuable experience exchange of Vietnam and Thailand in mango cultivation

The study tour to Thailand is one of the project activities to enhance collaboration, share knowledge, and enhance the capabilities of the project partners regarding the production and post-harvest management of mango fruits and gaining a better understanding and ideas how to further develop mango value chains in the Mekong delta of Vietnam.

The heart of the study tour revolved around visits to mango farms in Thailand. Participants had the chance to witness firsthand the innovative techniques employed by Thai farmers to grow mangoes successfully. These farms served as living classrooms, enabling the delegation to learn about various aspects of mango cultivation, such as pruning, soil management, pest control, and the application of fertilizers. Engaging with local farmers allowed the participants to gain practical insights and ask questions directly related to the challenges they face in their mango cultivation endeavors.

The exchange of knowledge was a two-way street during the study tour. The representatives of the project partners joining the study tour had the opportunity to share their own experiences and expertise in mango production in Vietnam. This mutual exchange enriched both parties, fostering a collaborative environment where best practices from different regions could be combined for the benefit of all. The interaction with Thai farmers was not limited to the fields; it extended to discussions on market trends, post-harvest handling, and the overall mango value chain.

One-of-a-kind study tour for mango innovators

One of the highlights of the study tour was the visit to the Fruit Research Institute at Kasetsart University in Thailand. Participants were given an exclusive insight into the latest advancements in mango breeding programs. The institute showcased ongoing research and development initiatives aimed at enhancing mango varieties, improving disease resistance, and increasing overall crop productivity. This segment of the tour provided a valuable platform for the participants to explore potential collaborations in research and development within the mango sector.

The study tour included a visit to Rachen Farm, a leading mango producer in Thailand. Participants had the opportunity to learn about pre and post-harvest practices that contribute to the production of high-quality mangoes. This aspect of the tour covered topics such as optimal harvesting techniques, de-sapping, hot water treatment, transportation methods, storage conditions, and packaging practices. The firsthand exposure to these advanced practices equipped the participants with valuable insights that can be implemented in their own mango cultivation processes back home.

Category: Crops