A sustainable living model in the countryside with 5 decares of land
The economic crisis and the stress of big cities are bringing the alternative of building a new life outside the city to the agenda for many people. Citizens from all walks of life, especially those struggling with rent issues and livelihood difficulties in Istanbul, are aiming to reshape the course of their lives and lead a calmer existence by moving to different cities. But to what extent is this possible, and what is the roadmap? Expert recommendations show that it is possible to survive by migrating from the city to villages or quieter towns.
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A 5-decare plot of land planned with the right agricultural methods can both meet a family's basic food needs and create a source of additional income. In line with expert recommendations, designing land use in detail is the key to this process.
LAND USE PLAN
The recommended systematic distribution for the cultivation of different products and living space on a 5-decare plot is as follows:
250 square meters for house and courtyard: Can be arranged as the family's living space. Being in close proximity to the garden facilitates daily agricultural activities.
250 square meters for vegetable garden: Vegetables that meet daily needs such as tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers are grown here.
500 square meters for legumes and root vegetables: Durable products such as onions, garlic, and potatoes can be used both as food stock and as a source of income.
1 decare for grain area: Wheat can be grown in the winter season, and products such as corn, sesame, and peanuts can be grown at the beginning of summer.
1 decare for pepper area for paste and pickles: Can be considered as a source of additional income. The product obtained from peppers for paste is in high demand in the market.
1 decare for orchard: An area of 40-50 trees can be created with various fruit trees such as olives, citrus, pomegranate, and grapes. It is ideal for both table use and the production of oil and other products.
1 decare for greens: Products such as parsley, mint, arugula, watercress, green onions, and lettuce can be grown. This area both meets family needs and can be sold profitably in markets.
GENERATING INCOME FROM GREENS PRODUCTION
Greens provide a great economic advantage, especially in regions close to city centers. 70-90 thousand bunches can be obtained from one decare of parsley annually. Parsley, which has a wholesale price of 8 TL, can easily be sold to restaurants or greengrocers for 10 TL. The annual revenue of a one-decare greens area can exceed 500 thousand TL, excluding expenses.
THE ADVANTAGE OF DIVERSITY
Instead of allocating the greens area entirely to parsley, dividing it among other products creates customer diversity and reduces risk. For example:
• 10 bunches of parsley
• 5 bunches of green onions
• 5 bunches of arugula
Such planning saves on transportation and time while gaining an advantageous position in the market with product diversity.
GRAIN AND LEGUME PLANNING
Grains and legumes form the basis of family food.
• Wheat can be planted in the winter season.
• At the beginning of summer, this area can be utilized with products such as corn, sesame, melon, watermelon, tomatoes, and peppers.
Grain products can last for a long time and their economic value can be increased by processing them.
PRODUCTS FOR PASTE AND PICKLES
Peppers for paste and vegetables for pickles can be considered as a second source of income. Products obtained from one decare can be processed and sold at a higher price. It is also possible to grow tomatoes or other products in this area besides peppers.
ORCHARD
An orchard can be considered a long-term investment. The recommended plan is as follows:
• 10 olive trees: Can meet both table and oil needs.
• Various trees such as citrus, grapes, pomegranate: In addition to table fruit needs, surplus products can be offered to the market.
SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE TECHNIQUES
Experts draw attention to the importance of sustainable agriculture:
• Mulching method: Prevents weed growth and preserves soil moisture. Weed control is achieved without the need for hoeing.
• Rainwater harvesting: Irrigation costs can be reduced thanks to ponds or water collection systems. It is possible to save up to 90 thousand TL per year thanks to a pond.
AVOIDING MONOCULTURE
Instead of monoculture agriculture (single-crop planting), a diversified model is recommended. In agriculture based on a single product, logistics and marketing costs rise while the farmer earns less. However, diversity both ensures food security and reduces economic risks.
This model makes it possible to establish a sustainable and profitable life in the countryside with small-scale agricultural land.
Thanks to proper planning, diversity, and sustainable agricultural techniques, both basic needs can be met and additional income can be generated.
Guided by these methods, the difficulties of a life away from the city can be easily overcome.