Karpas Farmers Pin Hops on Tobacco Crop

Source from:  In-Cyprus.com 03/13/2016

Villagers in the Karpas region are hoping their latest crop of tobacco plant (nicotiana) seedlings produces a sustainable harvest after a 12-year break in production.

The last tobacco harvest in the region was 12 years ago in 2004, despite a failed attempt to grow the crop two years ago. As no market was found for the 2004 harvest, the growers had all but abandoned attempts to grow the plant.

The Karpas Cooperative Tobacco Sales Company has been operating in the region since 1976 and had been producing 50 to 60 tonnes of tobacco a year.

For the past two years, though, farmers did not plant any tobacco crops as they had been unsuccessful in growing the crop.

An official from the Cooperative told media sources that their biggest competitor had been Syria, but the civil war had seen a drop in production, leading to a gap in the market.

The seedlings have been brought over from Turkey and are for the production of pipe-smoking tobacco, as the plant's leaves are aromatic. Previously, farmers used to produce 'Yayla' tobacco, which was native to the region. Resembling the Turkish tobacco in appearance, the 'Yayla' plant's tobacco had a totally different flavour.

Both species are particularly apt at growing in drier conditions such as the Karpas.

Tobacco was once an important source of income for the region. The intention to start growing tobacco again is being seen as a chance for economic regeneration in the region.

The crop is normally planted in February which sprouts in April/May and then harvested in June. The villagers have completed this year's planting.

The growers had been unsuccessful with their attempts in recent years and are hoping that the Turkish seedlings will be more successful this year.

The area's tobacco growers spoke to a local newspaper, saying this crop is vital for their livelihood and a chance to earn a lot of money in a few short months.

They indicated that with a good tobacco harvest, many invest in their homes or fulfil an urgent need. They have said they hope this year's crop does not fail them again. Enditem