Cyprus
Avocados and bananas from a biodiverse orchard at the foothills of the Troodos Mountains in Cyprus
Christakis Drousiotis has been cultivating avocados in the Paphos region of Cyprus for decades. With great passion and long-standing experience, he has developed his farm into a diverse and ecologically balanced orchard system. His decision to convert to biocyclic vegan agriculture reflects his deep ecological conviction and his trust in the self-regenerative power of nature.
Favourable natural conditions and responsible water management
His avocado groves are located in the western part of Cyprus, at the foothills of the Paphos Forest, which stretches up to the Troodos Mountains in the centre of the island. This region is known for its rich vegetation and comparatively high rainfall. Due to the orographic rainfall of this forested mountain area, the Paphos district records the highest precipitation levels in Cyprus. These conditions make the region particularly suitable for avocado and banana cultivation despite the generally dry Mediterranean climate.
Water management on the island is based on a modern and highly efficient system of dams and distribution channels. Combined with a well-organised national water allocation system, this infrastructure ensures that almost all rainfall is captured and used for drinking water and irrigation. Freshwater losses to the sea are therefore minimal, enabling agriculture to be supplied in a reliable and environmentally responsible way.
Mixed cropping and living soils
The favourable climate in the Paphos region also allows bananas to be cultivated successfully. For this reason, banana plants grow alongside avocado trees and other fruit species in Christakis Drousiotis’ orchards. Over the years, this has created a rich mixed cropping system and high biodiversity. The permanent vegetation cover promotes active soil life throughout the year. Leaves, grasses and plant residues remain on the soil surface, creating a natural composting process that has led to the gradual build-up of humus. This contributes significantly to soil fertility and has a positive influence on the flavour and texture of the fruits.
A natural step towards biocyclic vegan agriculture
The transition to biocyclic vegan farming was a logical continuation of Christakis Drousiotis’ ecological approach. Animal manure had only been used occasionally in the past and was often difficult to obtain in the region. Observing the strong plant-based humus formation in his orchards strengthened his conviction that a purely plant-based fertilisation system could achieve even better ecological and agronomic results. Today, his farm is managed according to the principles of biocyclic vegan agriculture, focusing on soil health, biodiversity and long-term sustainability.
Since November 2025, Christakis Drousiotis has been a member of the Panhellenic Biocyclic Vegan Network. The operation became certified according to the Biocyclic Vegan Standard in early 2026.
He markets his entire production through BIOSUN in Limassol.
Christakis Drousiotis
Kissonerga, Paphos
Cyprus