Export Growth of Bulgarian Rose Oil (1900–1904)
The following table shows the quantity and value of attar of roses (rose oil) exported from Bulgaria between 1900 and 1904. This fragrant oil was, and still is, one of Bulgaria’s most valuable exports.
Year Kilograms Value (in Francs)
1900 5,346 3,707,943
1901 3,027 2,140,538
1902 3,676 2,609,159
1903 6,210 3,734,950
1904 4,394 2,741,038
These figures clearly show that Bulgaria maintained a steady and profitable rose oil trade. Although the quantity varied from year to year due to weather conditions and harvest quality, the overall export remained significant. The years 1900 and 1903 were particularly successful, with exports exceeding 5,000 kilograms, bringing in over three million francs each Customized Private Turkey Tours.
Cultivation of Industrial Plants
Beetroot Cultivation and Sugar Production
The cultivation of beetroot is a relatively recent development in Bulgaria. It is grown mainly in the province of Sofia, where around 2,000 hectares of land are dedicated to it. The entire beetroot crop is processed by the sugar refinery near Sofia, which uses the harvest to produce refined sugar for domestic consumption.
This introduction of beetroot farming represents a modern step toward agricultural diversification and industrial self-sufficiency.
Growing Hemp, Rape, and Other Crops
The cultivation of hemp and rape (rapeseed) is also spreading across Bulgaria.
Rape is grown mainly for export, as its oil is used in industry and for cooking.
Hemp is valued for its strong fiber, which is used by rope-makers, especially in the large rope factories near Sofia.
Both crops are becoming increasingly important as farmers seek alternative sources of income beyond traditional grains.
Rice and Bean Production
Rice is another notable crop in Bulgaria. It is widely grown in the province of Philippopolis (Plovdiv) and, to a smaller extent, in Kotcharinova, located in the province of Kustendil. The annual rice harvest is estimated at around two million kilograms.
Meanwhile, haricot beans are produced on a much larger scale, with an average yearly yield of eight million kilograms. These beans are a staple food for the Bulgarian population and a valuable export commodity.
Livestock and Forage Cultivation
Importance of Livestock Farming
Livestock rearing remains one of the most important branches of Bulgarian rural economy. Farmers raise cattle, sheep, goats, and horses for meat, milk, wool, and labor. However, as pasturelands are gradually being replaced by cultivated fields, farmers must adapt by producing more forage crops to feed their animals.
Expansion of Forage Crops
To compensate for the reduction in natural pastures, Bulgarian farmers have increased the cultivation of forage plants, especially vetch and lucerne (alfalfa).
In 1892, the total area used for these crops was 31,342 hectares.
By 1899, this number had risen to 88,455.84 hectares—nearly triple in just seven years.
This expansion shows the rapid progress in modern agricultural practices and the growing awareness of the importance of animal feed in livestock management.
Government Support for Forage Farming
The Ministry of Commerce and Agriculture supports this development by distributing lucerne seeds free of charge each year. In addition, land sown with lucerne is exempted from taxes, encouraging farmers to grow more of it. These policies aim to improve soil fertility, support livestock health, and strengthen the rural economy.
Bulgaria’s agriculture at the beginning of the 20th century was entering a new phase of modernization. The cultivation of industrial plants like beetroot, hemp, rape, and rice, together with the traditional production of roses and tobacco, showed a balanced and promising rural economy. At the same time, livestock breeding and forage cultivation ensured the sustainable use of the country’s natural resources.
These combined efforts demonstrate Bulgaria’s determination to progress, transforming its rich land into a lasting source of national prosperity.