Carrot production in Serbia is becoming an increasingly lucrative business, but it requires specific conditions, including adequate soil structure, sufficient water and timely plant protection. Carrots in the country are mostly grown on sandy and alluvial soils with a pH value between 5.5 and 6.5. The annual yields in Serbia this year were rated as extremely high quality, and the average price per kilogram is around 60 dinars. However, the conditions for production are not easy, as confirmed by two experienced producers, Stefan Vidović from Futog and Tibor Molnar from Lukani Selo near Zrenjanin.
Stefan Vidović, who grows carrots on about 20 hectares in addition to other crops, points out that his family has been in this business for 20 years. On the other hand, the Molnar family used to grow smaller amounts of carrots, but today they cultivate between 30 and 40 hectares. They established a more serious production thanks to the association and the use of a large line for washing carrots, because placement on foreign markets is very profitable.
However, producers stress that carrot production is not a quick way to turn a profit. A soil analysis is necessary to ensure optimal growing conditions. Also, a big challenge is the lack of manpower, because the key success factor in this industry is the presence of qualified workers. Hourly wages for workers range between 350 and 500 dinars, and the lack of labor force further complicates the situation.
Carrots should be irrigated properly; irrigation prices
Irrigation is another challenge, because carrots require a lot of water, especially in the final stages of root development. The dry season of 2024 significantly increased irrigation costs, as the pumps did not stop working for almost two months. Despite the efforts of the producers to maintain the quality of the products, the drought still affected the yields.
Water and labor costs directly affect the price of carrots. The current price of 30-40 dinars per kilogram is not sustainable, and an increase of 10-15 dinars is expected to make production profitable. Average yields per hectare in Serbia are between 40 and 60 tons, while in Europe the yields are often twice as high.
The quality of carrots in Serbia is satisfactory, with about 70% of the production belonging to the first class. Market demand varies – while some countries prefer smaller carrots, such as Romania, others require larger ones.
Carrots can be stored for up to two months in dry warehouses without refrigeration or in cold storage with high humidity. However, the quality of the input raw material is crucial for long-term storage.
The producer’s conclusion is that carrot production can be profitable, but requires serious investment in land, labor and machinery. Stefan estimates that at least two hectares are needed per family member to ensure a decent life.
Source: Farmer
Source: boljazemlja.com
