Maldives has a territorial area of about 9000square kilometers.Of this about 99% is water while the remaining 1% is land. Due to the lack of land space large scale agricultural activities are not practiced in the Maldives.Nearly 95% of thecountry's demand for food is met through imports.
However many grow vegetable and fruit trees within their household compound.Some crops grow in the Maldives include: Brinjal, Tomato, Chillie,Bitter gourd,Breadfruit, Pomegranate,Coconut, Banana, Lemon.
Recent trends in agriculture
In recent years,some farmers and companies have undertaken the growing of fruits and vegetables on a more commercial scale. This change is due to the development of regular market for agricultre and perishable products, both in Male' and in the tourist industry.
Hydroponics
Hydroponics system are becoming more popula in many of the islands in Maldives.In these systems nutrients are circulated in PVC pipe system.
Answer the following questions.
1.Define the following terms.
Hydoponics, Agriculture, Nutrients,
2.Why large scale agriculture is not practiced in Maldives?
3.List some of the crops that are grown in the Maldives?
4.Why imported fruits and vegetables more expensive than those grown in islands?
5.What can we do to reduce te cost of food?
6.Explain how to make compost at home?
