Successful cultivation of Chinese lemon in southern Iraq sets a precedent

NAJAF, August 19 — In a precedent-setting achievement, a farmer has successfully cultivated the Chinese dwarf lemon in  Mashkhab district with seeds for the experiment sourced from Baghdad.

The Chinese lemons were grown in Ahmed Akil’s citrus farm, with hopes that the crop will gain popularity in the local markets due to its distinct flavor and long growing season.

Akil told 964: “My experiment with cultivating Chinese lemons in Mashkhab was successful a few months ago. I bought Chinese lemon seeds from a nursery in Baghdad and planted them in my land after providing the appropriate fertilizer and shade.”

“Chinese lemons differ from Iraqi lemons in several ways; they are smaller in size and can be grown in both summer and winter, unlike Iraqi lemons that are typically cultivated in a single season. Additionally, their sweet taste is reminiscent of oranges,” he explained.

According to Akil, one tree can also yield more fruit that a local lemon plant.

“I have plans to increase production and introduce Chinese lemons to the local market. I hope that this experiment can be extended to other farms.”