In the heart of Russia’s Zadonsky district, the village of Bolshoye Panarino is home to a remarkable agricultural endeavor led by young farmer Artem Lobeev. Combining traditional knowledge with modern techniques, Lobeev has established a thriving greenhouse operation cultivating both tulips and tomatoes.
Transition from Urban Life to Farming
Artem’s journey into agriculture began after exploring urban career opportunities. Despite securing a well-paying position in Saint Petersburg’s automotive sector, he found city life unfulfilling. This realization prompted his return to Bolshoye Panarino, where he assisted his parents in their seedling business. This experience ignited his passion for farming, leading him to establish his own greenhouse enterprise focusing on tomato cultivation.
Government Support and Expansion
Recognizing the potential for growth, Lobeev sought assistance from the Lipetsk Region’s Agro-Industrial Complex Competence Center. There, he learned about the “Agrostartup” grant, a government initiative supporting new agricultural ventures. In 2024, he secured a grant of 4 million rubles, enabling the construction of a state-of-the-art greenhouse measuring 1,000 square meters with a height of 5 meters. This facility features advanced heating systems and a double-layered film structure with an air cushion for improved insulation, optimizing the microclimate for tomato cultivation.
The “Agrostartup” program, introduced by the Russian government, offers grants of up to 4 million rubles for projects involving the creation and development of peasant (farm) enterprises, particularly in livestock farming. For other types of production, the grant amount can be up to 3 million rubles, covering up to 90% of the project costs. This initiative aims to bolster small-scale farming across the country, with significant allocations in regions like Yakutia and North Ossetia, where numerous farms have been established through this support.
Diversification into Floriculture
Not one to remain idle between tomato planting seasons, Artem ventured into floriculture, specifically tulip cultivation. Starting with a modest batch of 1,000 bulbs, he expanded to 50,000 tulips by 2025, utilizing hydroponic methods to ensure high-quality blooms. His greenhouses now showcase a vibrant array of tulips, from pristine whites and soft pinks to bold yellows and deep magentas, some with unique fringed petals resembling frost-kissed edges.
Future Prospects
Artem’s ambition extends beyond seasonal cultivation. He envisions year-round production by fully utilizing his land for continuous greenhouse farming. Plans include experimenting with various crops, such as leafy greens, to optimize the use of space and resources between primary planting cycles. He remains open to seeking further government support to realize these aspirations, reflecting a broader trend where the Russian government continues to allocate substantial funds, including 15 billion rubles in 2025, to support farmers and agricultural initiatives.
Artem Lobeev’s story exemplifies the potential of combining personal determination, innovative agricultural practices, and strategic utilization of government support. His successful integration of tulip and tomato cultivation in modern greenhouses serves as an inspiring model for young farmers and agricultural entrepreneurs aiming to diversify and expand their operations.
