The National Research and Development Center for Sustainable Agriculture, Estidamah, has achieved a milestone by successfully cultivating asparagus in greenhouses in Riyadh. This advancement is set to enhance Saudi Arabia’s agricultural landscape, focusing on improving food security and satisfying the growing local demand for this nutritious vegetable.
Through greenhouse technology, Estidamah has enabled year-round asparagus production, moving away from the traditional seasonal methods. The center is also investigating the integration of asparagus with fruit trees, which could optimize land use.
Asparagus is valued for its nutritional benefits and salt tolerance, making it a suitable crop for Saudi conditions. Initial projections suggest a yield of 700 grams per square meter each year. This initiative aims to reduce reliance on imported asparagus, which currently amounts to about 340,000 tons annually, and bolster the tourism and hospitality sectors. These efforts support the National Agriculture Strategy’s objectives to enhance sustainability and food security.
