#Svilajnac#Serbia#vegetableproduction#familyfarming#modernization#sustainableagriculture
The Stevanovic family from the village of Sedlare is one of the most prominent vegetable producers in the municipality of Svilajnac, Serbia. Stevan Stevanovic, a fourth-generation farmer who graduated from the Faculty of Agriculture in Zemun, has returned to his family business to modernize the production of peppers, tomatoes, cucumbers, cabbage, and cauliflower under greenhouses and open fields. Despite the decrease in the number of vegetable producers in the region, Stevanovic’s family farm continues to thrive. This article discusses the farming techniques, including proper fertilization, temperature, and irrigation, that contribute to the success of this family business.
According to the Serbian Statistical Office, the production of vegetables has been increasing steadily since 2016, reaching a record-high in 2020 of over 1.3 million tons. The country has favorable weather conditions, fertile soil, and a long tradition of vegetable cultivation, making it an essential sector for the country’s economy. However, the number of vegetable producers has been decreasing in recent years, and small family farms are becoming less common.
Stevanovic’s family farm is an example of a successful, modernized family business. They have expanded their production and invested in greenhouses and heating systems, which allows for better ventilation and a more extended growing season. Proper fertilization and irrigation are also essential components of their farming technique. Stevanovic emphasizes the importance of maintaining the temperature at around 16-17 degrees Celsius for the optimal growth of seedlings. The use of organic fertilizers and careful irrigation management contributes to the high quality and yield of their crops.
Despite the uncertainties and challenges of farming, such as fluctuating market prices and extreme weather conditions, the Stevanovic family continues to produce high-quality vegetables and grow their business. By applying modern farming techniques, they have adapted to changing market conditions and demonstrated the importance of preserving the tradition of family farming.
In conclusion, the success story of the Stevanovic family farm demonstrates the importance of modernization and adaptation to market conditions while maintaining traditional farming practices. By investing in modern technology and applying sustainable farming techniques, small family farms can remain competitive in the modern agricultural sector.
