Harvesting tamarind again in the fields of the Colonche parish fills the farmers of the aforementioned area with joy and optimism. Despite the fact that the trees of this fruit were maintained for some decades, little or almost nothing was produced at times.
But today everything has changed. To the surprise of many, in the last quarter of 2021 the tamarinds began to bloom and these days they are already in full harvest. Due to good production, the cost per pound of pulp does not exceed 50 cents.
“Some companions thought to cut down the trees because they did not bear fruit. I told them that at any moment they would start producing again. Thank God, time has proved me right,” says agronomist Wílmer Guale, who managed to harvest four quintals of tamarind.
Guale is optimistic and believes that in the next harvest, projected for mid-year, he will double the production. But not only he is excited, because Luis Tomalá, from the San Marcos commune, belonging to this same parish, indicates that now the plant will be given more attention so that it can bear more fruit.
“The water that we now have in the plots and the fertilizer that is applied to the land have helped tamarind production return. In truth, during these times the trees only served as shade. Now we are all going to pay more attention to tamarinds”, Tomalá highlights.
Very used
Tamarind has various uses in the kitchen. It is one of the favorites in the elaboration of juices. In addition, it is used for sauces and different dishes.
It also has medicinal powers and due to its properties it is considered an excellent laxative and diuretic.
Everything will get better
The agronomist Federico Neira shares Tomalá’s opinion and believes that now that the water keeps the soil moist, the tamarind trees turn green and bear fruit. In addition, he assures that better harvests will come. “The tamarind is one of the most climate-resistant trees, both in high and low temperatures, as well as in strong winds. These days they should be pruned so that they have better production”, recommends the expert.
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