Here is the problem with farming in Jamaica as I see it. I currently (along with my friend Marshall) have about 20 acres of a variety of items planted like sorrel, dasheen, plantains, ginger etc.. Clearing the land is not easy. Jamaicans us Gramazone and Paraquat to kill the weeds and then often over fertilize with "ferti" commercial fertilizers. When you don't have much money then you can't take the time to laboriously hand weed and grow "organically".Originally Posted by CosmicMoose
Yes, they could grow a lot more on a small amount of land but with limited resources and the constant need to feed your family as well as your pocketbook, planting and reaping is all you really have the time for.
Water is also a problem as there is no piped in water so rain water catchments are a necessity. Most farms are outside in the hills and a far way from any catchment. Thus, there is no irrigation without carrying 5 gallon pails to and from your house.
Marshall is a very smart guy who understands his limitations and is constantly improving his methods and marketing of what he produces. These "techniques" are the "fishing" in your parable. Just teaching a man to farm in the outdated way doesn't necessarily guarantee he will eat for a lifetime. Success breeds more success. Thanks for the link. I printed it out and will take it to Jamaica soon.
Nuff Respect!
