Nakhon Ratchasima:Retired educators Mr. Khajorn Panyathipviriy and Mrs. Anong Panyathipviriy have successfully established an organic pomelo orchard in Hua Na Village, Moo 6, Tambon Korat, Sung Noen District. The couple's "Grandma and Grandpa's" orchard is renowned for its chemical-free cultivation practices.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Khajorn, a former Electrical Engineer Level 4, and Mrs. Anong, a Senior Teacher prior to retirement, initiated the project eight years ago by transforming rented rice paddy land into a mixed farm. With their joint savings of 40,000 baht, they planted pomelos, coconuts, bananas, and mangoes, focusing on organic methods.
Initially, the couple experimented with planting Thong Dee and Khao Nam Phueng pomelos on a 2-rai plot. They employed grafting, used organic fertilizers, and adopted natural pest control methods, like wrapping saplings in plastic bags to protect against fruit flies. The farm expanded to 3 rai in the fourth year, with an investment of 300,000 baht, introducing varieties such as Khao Taeng Kwa and Thap Thim Siam. The orchard's pomelos are noted for their distinct flavors.
The couple markets their produce locally and online, offering pomelos at competitive prices. The success of their orchard has provided them with a stable income, enabling a comfortable, debt-free retirement.