Croatia Begins Organic Tomato Harvest, Bolstered by Bumblebees and Biogas Power

At Belje, the first organic tomatoes are being harvested, a testament to Podravka Agri's commitment to sustainable agriculture. These aren't just any tomatoes; grown in specialized greenhouses, each plant can reach up to 15 meters and yield 20 kilograms of fruit. This innovative approach, which eschews pesticides and relies on bumblebees for pollination, is part of a larger vision for a truly sustainable agricultural complex. The greenhouse is heated by a biogas power plant, showcasing a closed-loop system that minimizes environmental impact.

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In the cultivation of tomatoes, only biological protection is used without the use of pesticides, and bumblebees are responsible for pollinating the plants.

Beyond the greenhouses, the fields are alive with spring sowing. Podravka Agri is embracing modern techniques, including direct seeding without prior plowing, to maintain long-term soil productivity. This forward-thinking strategy is evident in the planting of sugar beet, sunflowers, and an increased focus on potatoes, with twice the land dedicated to this crop compared to last year. This expansion is driven by market demand and the need for domestic potato supply, reducing reliance on imports.

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The greenhouse is heated by thermal energy produced by a biogas power plant, making the entire Mitrovac agricultural complex a prime example of sustainable agriculture.

This season's harvest and planting efforts highlight Croatia's agricultural potential and Podravka Agri's role in bolstering domestic production. The company processed a significant amount of local tomatoes last year and plans to increase this substantially, contributing to the nation's impressive growth in tomato output. The emphasis on organic methods and sustainable energy sources not only benefits the environment but also ensures the quality and reliability of the produce reaching consumers. This approach aligns with a growing global demand for eco-friendly food production and positions Croatia as a leader in sustainable farming practices within the region.

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For planting potatoes, we have prepared 129 hectares of irrigated land, which is more than double the area compared to last year.