Choosing the right fertiliser can make the difference between an average harvest and a productive one.
The “Introduction to Fertilisers: How to Choose and Use” workshop, hosted by the Marvista Institute for Agriculture, Training & Development, brought together farmers, backyard gardeners and agricultural stakeholders to strengthen their knowledge of proper fertiliser management and sustainable farming practices.
Agribusiness and Value Chain Specialist at the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), Richard Rampersaud, introduced participants to the four Rs of effective fertiliser use.
“The right fertiliser, the right rate, right time and in the right place. All of which you will learn today. Good fertiliser management improves crop productivity, increases profitability, protects our soils and waterways and ultimately contributes to national food and nutrition security.”
Participants also learnt how plant nutrition and soil health influence crop performance.
Branch Sales Manager at Republic Bank, Arnold Ramsingh, said understanding fertiliser selection and application can help farmers improve productivity while reducing unnecessary costs.
“Throughout the day, participants will gain a deeper understanding of plant nutrition and how soil health influences fertiliser performance, explore how to select the right fertiliser for different crops and understand the correct methods of fertiliser application to improve productivity and efficiency.”
The workshop also highlighted the wider impact of efficient fertiliser use on food production, as explained by the Manager of the Local Economic Development Unit at the Ministry of Rural Development and Local Government, Alicia Lovelace.
“When farmers use their inputs more efficiently, they are better positioned to increase yields, strengthen their businesses and supply local markets. When backyard gardeners produce more of their own food, households become more resilient. When young people and women are introduced to modern and climate-smart agricultural practices, new possibilities for enterprise and employment are created.”
The workshop forms part of ongoing efforts to equip farmers with practical, climate-smart techniques that support sustainable agriculture and strengthen Trinidad and Tobago’s food security.