Field Monitoring of Grain Crops and Assessment of No-till (Soil Zero-Tillage Method) Implementation in Jalal-Abad Region

On April 5, 2026, within the framework of the project “Value Chain Agro Finance”, a field visit was conducted in Jalal-Abad region to monitor grain crop fields. The main objective of the visit was to observe farms applying No-till method, assess crop conditions, and provide advisory support.

During the mission, five farmers’ fields with a total area of more than 13.5 hectares were inspected. These farms are applying No-till (soil zero-tillage method) for the first time. All farmers used the wheat variety “Stiklovidnaya 24” (first reproduction). The seeding rate was approximately 230 kg/ha, with fertilizers including ammophos and ammonium nitrate applied.

Field observations showed positive results. Although farmers initially expressed concerns due to low precipitation in the autumn period, spring rains ensured good germination. At the time of inspection, the wheat crops were in good condition.

Special attention was given to the introduction of No-till method in Kashka-Terek village, where this technology is being applied for the first time. Previously, farmers were only familiar with the method in theory, but through project support and training activities they have transitioned to practical implementation.

Key challenges were also identified during the meetings. Rising prices of mineral fertilizers and a shortage of urea on the market were among the main constraints. In response, experts recommended the use of ammonium nitrate as an alternative nitrogen source, which was promptly adopted by most farmers.

The economic efficiency of the technology was also discussed. This season, the rental cost of a No-till seeder method was approximately 6,000 KGS per hectare. This has increased farmers’ interest in purchasing their own machinery. Currently, the technology covers around 35 hectares in the region, with a potential expansion up to 300 hectares.

The field visit confirmed strong interest among farmers in resource-efficient technologies and significant potential for scaling up No-till method practices in the region.