Growing onion was not a wrong decision for most of the farmers of Langthil Gewog in Trongsa. This year, onion production has increased and even the harvest was bountiful. From 11 tons last year, the production rose to 30 tons this time.
The farmers’ group in Yuendruchhoeling, Beyling, Namthir, Khoshala, Tongtophey, Wangling and Jangbi villages started growing onion some three years ago. One of them is Sangay from Tongtophey. These days, she is busy spreading onions in her attic.
She sold a thousand kilograms of onion and still she has about 500 kilograms. Last year, the production was just about a thousand kilograms. She even earned a better price this year. A kilogram of onion fetches about Nu 80.
“Water and manure are the essential elements for better yield. We can also achieve self-sufficiency,” said Sangay.
Since the wild animals do not attack the crop, she plans to grow more.
Meanwhile, the district agriculture sector encouraged the farmers’ group to grow onions by providing hybrid seeds. This initiative is expected to reduce the dependency on imported onions.
“Onions can be grown after harvesting maize and paddy. And before the onset of paddy transplantation season, onions can be harvested. Growing onions is to reduce the dependency on imports,” said Karma Wangchuk, Deputy Chief Agriculture Officer.
Although growing onions have been a success for many farmers, some farmers faced market issues and pest infestation.
“Last year, we were unable to sell the onions and we were disappointed. So, we didn’t grow onions,” said Namgay, a resident.
“We faced a market issue last year. That’s why I grew onions on only three decimals of the land but the yield was good. The production was about 1,000 – 2,000 kilograms,” said Ugyen Lhendup, another resident.
According to the district agriculture sector, the farmers need to practice crop rotation and mixed farming methods to keep the pests away. Meantime, the sector is also exploring ways to use pest repellents and provide curing rooms for those who lack such facilities.
For now, Langthil Gewog is the only gewog in the district to produce onion in abundance.
Passa, Trongsa
Edited by Tshering Zam
