Water usage in agriculture: Exploring our rainfed cultivation

Avocados on branch
Water is the fountain from which all life flows. Therefore, we do all we can to protect and preserve this precious resource. Water provides the necessary hydration for crops to grow and thrive in agriculture. However, concerns have arisen regarding water usage in specific agricultural sectors, including the avocado industry. As a leading organic avocado company, we have taken a proactive approach by prioritising rainfed cultivation in response to these concerns. We are here to share why sustainable practices in our food production should matter to you and our planet.

Water usage and environmental impacts on avocado agriculture

Avocado farming involves meticulously cultivating and harvesting the avocado fruit. It takes patience, as avocado trees require approximately three to five years to bear their first delectable fruit crop. In warm and humid environments, avocados are predominantly grown in faraway lands, such as Mexico, Peru and Kenya, where we grow our avocados. While the popularity of avocados has soared, and production amounted to about 8.98 million, in 2022, their environmental impact is a growing concern. The main environmental issues of avocado production include carbon footprint, soil degradation, and water usage. Since avocado farming is a water-intensive process, we take pride in minimising our water usage by relying on rainfall while ensuring the production of high-quality avocados.

Capturing and storing rainwater

The key pillar of our sustainable farming practices is its reliance on rainfall as the primary source of irrigation.

We reduce our water footprint by nourishing most of our crops with rainwater. We seek to arm our farmers with the expertise and technology to tap into these reserves during dry spells by capturing and storing rainwater during abundant rainfall. This ensures a reliable water supply for their avocado crops, even when the skies are dry!

This approach minimises the need for excessive irrigation and contributes to long-term water sustainability that benefits the environment.

Importance of efficient irrigation

Even with rainfed cultivation, there may be instances where supplemental irrigation becomes necessary. To reduce water usage in such cases, we promote efficient irrigation techniques.

For example, precision irrigation systems, such as drip irrigation, deliver water directly to the plant’s root zones. This targeted approach reduces water loss through evaporation and ensures plants receive the necessary hydration without waste.

Monitoring soil moisture

To further optimise irrigation practices, we encourage farmers to monitor soil moisture levels regularly. By using moisture sensors and other monitoring tools, farmers can determine when irrigation is required and in what amounts. This data-driven approach ensures that water is applied only when necessary, reducing unnecessary water usage and maximising its effectiveness.

Promoting soil health

Healthy soil is essential for efficient water usage in agriculture. We promote sustainable farming practices, prioritising soil health, as healthy soil is a natural reservoir for water and nutrients.

Cover cropping, crop rotation, and organic matter addition improve soil structure, increase water-holding capacity, and reduce erosion. By enhancing soil health, water is retained within the root zone for longer periods, reducing the need for frequent irrigation.

Avocados on tree

Join the movement towards sustainable agriculture with Mavuno Bios Organics

We wholeheartedly embrace our role as guardians of the planet and its people. We understand that the beauty and abundance of our lands are inseparable from our collective well-being, so we prioritise stewardship and resourcefulness in everything we do.

From our skilled workforce to our cutting-edge technology and abundant natural resources, we harness every asset at our disposal to maximise their potential without waste. We operate efficiently and effectively, minimising our environmental impact with sustainable and ethical practices.

Our dedication to protecting the natural environment is not just a theory; it’s a core part of our everyday operations. We strive to preserve our treasured resources for generations to come, creating a future where the land continues to provide for us all.

But we need help achieving our vision. As consumers or fresh produce importers, we invite you to join us on this journey towards sustainability. Look for Mavuno Bios Organics for your avocados, knowing that our practices are organic, sustainable, and fair trade.
By making conscious choices as consumers, you can influence what supermarkets and fresh produce suppliers offer.

Together, we can create a ripple effect of change throughout the industry, encouraging others to adopt sustainable and environmentally friendly farming practices that offer you more nutritious value.

Let us collectively shape a future where responsible agriculture is the new normal and the bountiful fruits of our lands continue to flourish for generations to come.