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Hello, fellow sustainability enthusiasts! My name is Leeza Charles, founder of Arubana and a proud volunteer with the Zero Hunger Trust Fund. Recently, I had the pleasure of participating in a transformative training program on Vegetable Seedling Production and Post-Harvest Vegetation Handling Practices at the Taiwan Technical Mission farm in Orange Hill, St. Vincent.
This incredible initiative, organized by the Zero Hunger Trust Fund, aims to empower 7,000 families across St. Vincent to establish backyard gardens, reducing food insecurity while fostering community resilience.
The Training Highlights
The program was organized by the dynamic Alanda Moses, Senior Project officer of the Zero Hunger Trust Fund, with support from the Taiwanese Technical Mission’s talented technicians: Jovi Lai, Ming-Zing Lee, and Yi-Ying Shen, under the guidance of Mr. Lee Chin Yu, Head of the Technical Mission. Their passion and expertise made every moment of the training impactful.
Here’s what we covered:
1. Seed Germination and Planting Techniques
We learned the distinction between:
Direct Planting: Best for crops like corn and radishes, which thrive when seeds are sown directly into the soil.
Seed Germination: Ideal for plants like tomatoes and peppers, requiring controlled conditions for healthy sprouting.
In addition to mastering seed-handling and storage techniques, we tackled troubleshooting for common germination challenges.
2. Soil Composition for Seed Germination
Healthy plants need a strong foundation. We explored the essential components of soil for seed germination, including aeration, moisture retention, and nutrient balance, ensuring seedlings get the best start possible.
3. Hands-On Greenhouse Experience
Moving from theory to practice, we stepped into the greenhouse to apply our knowledge. Guided by the Taiwanese technicians, we practiced seed germination techniques firsthand. It was a rewarding experience to get our hands in the soil and watch these principles come to life.
4. Post-Harvest Practices
In the final session, held in the chilling and storage facility, we focused on:
Proper care and packaging methods to maintain the quality of harvested vegetables.
Cooling techniques crucial for preserving freshness.
The highlight was a sneak peek at the prototype of a new portable produce chiller, a forthcoming tool designed to revolutionize post-harvest handling in rural communities.
A Personal Note
As a volunteer with the Zero Hunger Trust Fund, I am deeply committed to its mission of alleviating food insecurity. Programs like this reaffirm the power of education and collaboration in driving meaningful change.
A heartfelt thank you to the Taiwanese Technical Mission and the Zero Hunger Trust Fund for organizing such an enlightening experience. Your dedication inspires us all to keep planting seeds of hope and progress.
And a special shoutout for the pineapple slips. I can’t wait to plant them and see them thrive at Arubana!
Join the Movement !
If you’d like to support or learn more about these incredible organizations, here’s how you can connect:
Zero Hunger Trust Fund
Website: zerohungersvg.com
Phone: (784) 457-1738
Email: info@zerohungersvg.com
Address: 2nd Floor, NIS Building, Upper Bay Street, Kingstown, St. Vincent and the Grenadines
Taiwan Technical Agriculture Mission
Phone: 01 784 451 1188 / 458 7447
Address: Pembroke, P.O. Box 21, Kingstown, St. Vincent and the Grenadines
At Arubana, we’re proud to align with initiatives that champion sustainability and community empowerment. Together, we can cultivate a future rooted in resilience and growth.
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