One of the tools CEPAD uses in our Food and Environment Security program is crop diversification. Many rural farmers, including Marlon, have traditionally only grown two or three basic crops. By participating in CEPAD’s program, they receive a new variety of plants and learn how to make plant nurseries as well. Marlon is now growing 29 different kinds of crops, including: tomato, pepper, squash, cucumber, carrot, plantains, onions, radish, fruit trees, citrus trees, and root vegetables.
What’s more, rural farmers learn how to graft their fruit and citrus trees, which can provide a more bountiful harvest. One tree can grow two or three different kinds of fruits using this method. What’s more, Marlon’s plants are growing with organic products.
“I’m applying conservation techniques to the soil and water to reduce soil erosion. I take care of the earth by not burning my land. I make my own organic insecticides using chili, garlic, onion, and tobacco. It helps to clean the soil and reduce contamination. I also collect animal droppings to make organic compost to use on my fruit trees, forest trees, and vegetable plants.”