Research & Article

Suan Sema, the first intensive vegetable farming operation of its kind in Thailand, originated under the leadership of H.S.H. Prince Subha Svasti. The project used modern methods and scientific techniques and introduced middle-latitude types of crops. While Suan Sema was not necessarily the most cost-effective farming operation, Bangkok’s lack of cool, moist uplands suitable for the production of certain vegetables made the Prince’s experimentation with cool-weather crops especially significant. Furthermore, many farmers in Bangkok adapted the practice of using sanitary tropical and mid-latitude vegetables in Thailand, while Prince Subha Svasti’s involvement in other similar projects inspired numerous young Thai nationals to establish their own vegetable farms. This article aims to communicate a comprehensive understanding of Suan Sema, as well as the Prince’s agricultural legacy. An overview of various production components is provided, such as irrigation challenges, a soil analysis and labor supply demographics, with production activities being compared to alternative options.