67-Year-Old Kerala Woman Thrives with Innovative Soilless Dragon Fruit Farming
A New Chapter in Farming
In the village of Kollam, Kerala, 67-year-old Remabhai is challenging traditional norms by authoring a book focused on retirement. After retiring from her teaching career in 2011, she transformed the garden behind her home into a flourishing dragon fruit orchard, utilizing a unique method that requires no soil.
Unwilling to embrace a sedentary lifestyle, Remabhai pursued her passion for farming. Her interest in gardening evolved into an environmentally friendly venture when she discovered the concept of soilless farming, prompting her to experiment with this innovative approach.
Instead of relying on conventional farming techniques, Remabhai uses grow bags filled with a specially formulated growing medium made from coconut husk, cow dung, and compost. This method not only conserves land but also minimizes weed growth while ensuring that each plant receives the necessary nutrients, resulting in a vibrant array of dragon fruit plants that have transformed her home into a mini-farm.
Starting with just a few cuttings, Remabhai's initial success boosted her confidence, leading her to expand her farming efforts. Today, she boasts over 100 dragon fruit trees and harvests hundreds of fruits each year, selling them not only for personal consumption but also as a source of income and community respect.
What sets Remabhai apart is her dedication to continuous learning. Despite her age, she stays updated on agricultural practices, explores plant care techniques, and even offers advice to others interested in dragon fruit cultivation. Her journey exemplifies a blend of curiosity, determination, and a willingness to adapt.
In an era where food security and sustainable farming are pressing global issues, Remabhai’s story serves as a powerful reminder of how individual initiatives, even from the smallest villages, can drive meaningful change. With no formal agricultural training, she demonstrates that passion combined with innovation can lead to significant impact.
Remabhai’s journey from the classroom to the garden transcends a simple retirement narrative; it embodies growth, purpose, and the potential to redefine possibilities at any age.