Riyadh: Agriculture is a vital sector in the Kingdom, crucial to enhancing food security and boosting the national economy. Recent advancements in agricultural practices have led to the introduction of innovative systems aimed at increasing production and improving crop quality year-round. Among the most notable of these are greenhouses, which have become a strategic solution in many countries to address climate change and strengthen food security.
According to Saudi Press Agency, greenhouses offer several advantages, including protection from pests and diseases. They allow farmers to optimize water usage and control critical environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and lighting, which not only improves crop production and quality but also boosts yields beyond traditional growing seasons.
Greenhouse agriculture is also known for its low labor requirements, ability to support year-round cultivation, and reduced dependence on pesticides. However, farmers face challenges, including high initial setup and maintenance costs, the need for specialized training to effectively manage greenhouses, and the frequent maintenance of ventilation systems.
In an interview with the Saudi Press Agency, a farmer with 15 years of experience using greenhouses shared that while he was initially hesitant due to the high costs, production has since doubled. Over time, he gained valuable experience in greenhouse management and marketing, expanding his crop range to include varieties like strawberries, peppers, tomatoes, cucumbers, and zucchini. He also noted that greenhouses have helped reduce pesticide use, as it is easier to control internal environments than external ones.
With the Saudi leadership's support to the agricultural sector, which has provided farmers with vital resources and assistance, greenhouses continue to play a key role in achieving self-sufficiency, boosting farmers' incomes, and advancing the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030.