Phitsanulok:A female farmer in Phitsanulok has successfully turned a crisis into an opportunity by cultivating a safe vegetable farm that promotes "Phum," a high-protein Thai plant. By processing this native plant and developing it into Thai desserts, she has created added value and provided a healthy option for consumers, thus increasing the value of her farm produce.
According to Thai News Agency, the owner of I ORGANIC FARM, located in Bang Krathum District, Phitsanulok Province, operates a 23 rai (approximately 9.1 hectares) farm. This includes an original 8 rai (approximately 3.2 hectares) of greenhouses that were previously used for herbal farming and are now dedicated to vegetable and health-focused crop production.
Ms. Jintana Hukkhunthod, 43, started the farm in 2014 after returning to her hometown to care for her family. Initially focusing on lime cultivation, she faced challenges with monoculture farming, which led her to explore integrated farming and organic methods, reducing chemical use and experimenting with various crops.
The farm has experienced significant challenges, including market changes and the need for business adjustments. Initially, they experimented with salad greens but adapted their approach due to issues like hot weather and irrigation challenges. This led to improved produce quality and the development of products like kale powder, adding value by processing fresh kale into a preservable ingredient.
I ORGANIC FARM has also gained attention for its cultivation of "Lemna," a small aquatic plant valued for its protein and amino acids. By controlling environmental factors in greenhouses, the farm increased Lemna yields and expanded its use into traditional Thai desserts, creating unique products like duckweed jelly and duckweed rice balls.
The farm's current offerings include fresh vegetables, duckweed products, and kale and mixed vegetable powders, known for their high fiber content. Interested customers can place orders via Line ID @iorganicfarm, with deliveries available in Phitsanulok city every Monday and Thursday. For more information, they can be contacted at 06 3531 9245 or 09 9134 9245.