In the region of Kokkinoxoria, the soil turns deep red. Around Liopetri, this earth is rich in minerals like iron, phosphorus, and calcium — a combination that gives life to some of the most well-known agricultural products of Cyprus, especially potatoes.

This is where I met Giorgos Theodorou, 64 years old.

Farming has always been part of his life. His father and grandfather worked the land, and from a young age he followed them into the fields.

“When I was eleven, I was already taking the tractor to the fields,” he said. “Just with some bread and water.”

Even during school, his routine was the same — lessons in the morning, fields in the afternoon.

Later, he worked in construction, but the connection to the land never left him.

“It was calling me back, like an old love,” he said.

When his father asked him and his brother to take over the fields, he returned. Eventually, he continued alone.

One of the most important moments is the potato harvest — when the potatoes are carefully lifted from the soil.

“We start very early,” he said. “You have to take them out at the right time, before the sun affects them.”

After harvesting, they are quickly stored, protected from light and moisture.

“This is the most satisfying moment,” he said. “You see your work come together.”

For him, the relationship is personal.

“My potatoes are like my kids,” he said. “You have to take care of them all the time.”

Weather remains the biggest challenge.

“If the temperature drops below zero, they can be lost,” he said. “You have to stay alert.”

Standing in his fields, he sees more than the present.

“My family passed through this land,” he said. “This place holds my memories.”

Over the years, he has learned one simple truth:

“When the land needs something today, you do it today. Tomorrow is already late.”

His goal remains clear.

“I want to produce good, tasty potatoes,” he said. “And for people to be satisfied.”

And in the red soil of Liopetri, he continues — season after season.