Organic horticulture in the tropics: situation and examples from Meso-America.
Pohlan H. A. J., Gamboa Moya W. G., Salazar Centeno D. J., Marroquín Agreda F., Janssens M. J. J., Leyva Galán A., Guzman E., Toledo Toledo E., Gómez Álvarez R.
Author Affiliation: Universität Bonn, INRES, Auf dem Hügel 6, D-53121 Bonn, Germany.
Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics 108 : 123-148
Abstract : The situation of organic horticulture in Meso-America is difficult to qualify and to quantify. Although certified organic horticulture is practiced throughout the subcontinent, statistical documentation is not up-to-date. On the other hand, many smallholders cultivate fruits and vegetables without fertilizers nor pesticides as they are short of financial means. This study is based on examples and recommended practices. Farmers' attitudes are presented, and advantages and disadvantages critically discussed. Emphasis is given to chayote cropping in Costa Rica and Mexico; pitahaya in Nicaragua; papaya in Tabasco, Mexico; mango, rambutan and sugarcane in Chiapas, Mexico; and the family gardens in Cuba. Results of a public consumer survey indicate (i) the consumers' clear interest to buy organic products, (ii) the opportunities for establishing interactions between farmers and consumers as part of overall agro-ecological development, and (iii) the need to improve the education of consumers and farmers on the agro-ecological aspects of human health.