Short-cycle crops: A window to fresh and frequent harvests

Short-cycle crops, also known as seasonal crops, are those that complete their life cycle, from planting to harvest, in a period of less than a year, this type of agriculture offers multiple advantages, both for small producers and consumers, making it an attractive and sustainable option. Generally in the orchards established in the homes or communities this type of crops are established, some by the small or medium size they have and by such a short cycle to produce some can be harvested after 3 to 5 months of sowing.

Short-cycle crops play a fundamental role in food security and rural development, they are an important source of fresh and nutritious food for local communities, especially in areas with limited access to markets or supermarkets. In addition, they generate employment and income opportunities for small farmers, contributing to local economic development.

Among the characteristics and benefits are the rapid rotation of crops since, you can get several harvests throughout the year, making the most of the available land and resources, also the freshness and flavor of the locally harvested products retain a higher degree of freshness and flavor, which translates into a better experience for the consumer, in the same way the variety because there is the possibility of growing a wide range of vegetables and seasonal vegetables allows you to enjoy a rich and diverse diet, on the other hand, they usually have a lower production cost, making them more accessible to consumers, in addition, due to their short production cycle, sustainable agricultural practices such as crop rotation and organic farming are promoted, which contribute to soil conservation and reducing environmental impact.

Among the recommendations that we can recommend as engineers to properly manage a short-cycle crop, first of all we must select or choose a place with good sun exposure, adequate drainage and fertile soil, the soil must be prepared, that is, till the soil to aerate it and eliminate weeds, and add organic fertilizer to enrich it, of course the seeds must be sown or in case of transplanting the seedlings to the depth and distance recommended for each crop, there should be at least in the first months the irrigation, it should be watered periodically, especially during the germination and growth stages, be attentive to pest and disease control, if possible implement preventive measures and use biological control methods when necessary, to then obtain a great harvest at the optimal time of ripening to obtain the best quality and flavor.

Short-cycle crops are an excellent option for those looking to grow their own fresh, healthy and sustainable food. In addition, they offer an opportunity for agricultural entrepreneurs to generate income and contribute to local food security, their implementation on a small or large scale can contribute to improving food security, rural development and environmental conservation. In Venezuela, there are various initiatives that promote short-cycle cultivation, such as urban and peri-urban garden programs, as well as technical assistance from some institutions and financing for small producers, taking advantage of these opportunities can contribute to the development of more sustainable and resilient communities.