Samsun producer sees high returns from dragon fruit cultivation

In the Çarşamba district of Samsun, dragon fruit cultivation is emerging as a successful alternative agricultural model. Producer Neşe Özbek, who began operations four years ago in a 480-square-meter greenhouse with 400 saplings, is currently engaged in both fruit and sapling sales.

Samsun Provincial Director of Agriculture and Forestry, Kemal Yılmaz, visited the site to observe the production. He noted that dragon fruit offers significantly higher income per unit area compared to traditional crops grown in the region. This year, the producer expects a harvest of approximately 1 ton of fruit. With market prices for dragon fruit ranging between 200 and 250 lira per kilogram, the crop provides a substantial contribution to the family economy.

Officials emphasized that while greenhouse cultivation of tropical products is highly profitable, it requires careful management. Specifically, maintaining heat during winter months is critical to prevent damage to the facilities and crops.