In this season, those who managed to harvest strawberries earlier than others have already sold the first batch at a price of 600 soms per kilogram. Most farmers started harvesting on April 20, selling the berries for 400 soms per kilogram. Currently, the price of strawberries has dropped to 150 soms per kilogram.
Akyilbek Anarbaev, a deputy of the village council, reported that strawberries are grown in Noshken on an area of about 100 hectares. In recent years, farmers have opted for the "Clery" variety, which is known for its high yield, large berries, and early ripening. "We strive to minimize the use of chemical fertilizers, except for special vitamins for strawberries. The 'Clery' variety is also excellent for export. Our berries are sent to Russia, and in recent days, supplies have begun to Bishkek. This year, the harvest is good, and the weather is conducive to harvesting," Anarbaev added.
Strawberries are grown both in open fields and under film. The film method helps retain soil moisture, protects the berries from contamination, and accelerates their ripening by a few days. Last season, due to frequent rains, strawberries planted in open fields got dirty, which worsened their market appearance and created difficulties for farmers. This year, clear weather is favorable for the harvest.
Strawberry harvesting takes place every two days and usually continues until May 20-25. Farmers hope that there will be no heavy rains during this period. Previously, many of them were engaged in cotton cultivation, but most have switched to strawberries, as this business requires less effort and brings in more profit. Growing onions has proven unfeasible due to the characteristics of local soils. To increase yields, strawberry fields are renewed every four years.
Artykbay Abdurakhimov, a resident of the village of Noshken, confirmed that farmers are satisfied with the price of 400 soms per kilogram. They hire workers for harvesting, paying them 100 soms per hour, with separate expenses for food and transportation. However, finding labor can be challenging. Sometimes, if trucks do not arrive, farmers have to transport the berries to the market themselves. For example, on May 7, Artykbay sold 300 kg of strawberries at a price of 125 soms per kilogram. "Ripe berries need to be harvested on time; they do not store well. It's better to sell at the current price than to hold onto them," the farmer said.
About 5,000 people live in the village of Noshken.
