A watercress field. In the rice paddies of Antananarivo, watercress holds an important place in the agricultural calendar. From March to August, several farmers turn to this crop, which adapts well to humid terrain and supplies the capital's markets. In several areas, plots usually reserved for rice welcome this production during this period. The availability of water in these paddies favors the development of this plant.
In these agricultural zones, several farmers practice this cultivation and share available plots during the season. Successive harvests allow producers to meet market demand. "This period is favorable for this crop. Water is available and we can complete several cycles during the season," explains Rajanto, a watercress farmer.
From five o'clock in the morning, farmers head to their plots to begin selling their production to merchants and local residents. Despite the morning cold, they also ensure crop maintenance and harvesting until nine o'clock.
Expenses
To develop his activity, Rajanto rents two rice paddies for 450,000 ariary during the season. Between March and August, he completes three to four cultivation cycles. His production is then destined mainly for sellers who come to supply themselves directly from him.
With merchants, Rajanto sells a burlap sack of this production between 15,000 and 20,000 ariary. The price varies depending on whether the sack is provided by the merchant or the producer. Part of his harvest is also sold directly to local residents at 500 ariary per bunch, for family consumption or poultry feed.
But this activity requires several expenses and regular monitoring. Farmers must ensure the renewal of water in the paddies and use insecticides to fight small insects that attack the plants. These treatments are part of the necessary steps to preserve harvest quality.
With several producers present in the capital's rice paddies, watercress cultivation drives a local economic circuit connecting farmers, sellers, and consumers. From plot to market, this seasonal production contributes to supplying Antananarivo with fresh vegetables.