fruit farming in the mediterranean land of africa

Fruit farming is a system of agriculture which involves the cultivation of fruit crops for commercial and domestic purposes.  In areas where lots of fruits crops are cultivated in plantation system, it is referred to as orchard farming.

The most noticeable areas in the Mediterranean lands of Africa where fruit farming is very pronounced include places in South Africa (around Cape Town, Orange Free State and Natal).  In the north Western part of Africa, Libya, Morocco, Algeria and Tunisia are the main places.

CONDITIONS NECESSARY FOR THE PRACTICE OF FRUIT FARMING IN THE MEDITERRANEAN LANDS

1. The presence of Mediterranean climate
2. Presence of fertile alluvia soil
3. Availability of ready market both local and foreign
4. The use of irrigation system of crop cultivation
5. Adequate rainfall in winter nor exceeding 1000mm per annum.
6. Government’s assistance as in the case of South Africa
7. The presence of local winds of siroro and mistral in the Mediterranean religion.

FRUITS PRODUCED IN THE MEDITERRANEAN LANDS

In the North West Africa, the main fruits produced include, limes and tangerines, lemon, olive figs, oranges, grapes and apricots whereas in South Africa, the main fruits grown include apple, pears, peaches, and apricots, vine, grapes and cherries.

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE OF FRUIT FARMING

1. It yield a lot of foreign exchange through export
2. It creates employment for people within the areas
3. It provides raw materials for both local and foreign canning industries
4. It generates revenue to the government and the farmers
5. It is used for the production of wine.

THE PROBLEMS ASSOCIATED WITH FRUIT FARMING IN THE MEDITERRANEAN LANDS

1. Lack of proper storage and processing facilities
2. Inadequate rainfall impedes the growth and cultivation of these crops
3. Lack of manpower to man the various fruit-processing industries
4. Soil erosion often affects fruit production
5. The wine processed form the fruits equally faces severe competition with other countries.