Farmers in Hadithah anticipate a prosperous date harvest

ANBAR, September 10 — Farmers in Hadithah are looking forward to harvesting Zahdi dates at the beginning of October, which is a bit late, but they expect a season with a bountiful yield surpassing the previous one.

Palm trees are evenly lined along the road, especially after the road was paved through the city’s orchards, making it easier for farmers to move between them. They have been diligent in fertilizing the soil and pruning the palms before the harvest season.

Ammar Al-Bayati, a farmer, said, “The Khustawi and Barban dates have already been harvested this week, and we are now waiting for the bigger yield of Zahdi dates.”

Usually, the harvest takes place in the last ten days of September, but this season, it is expected to be delayed until the beginning of October.

Ahmed Abdullah, another farmer, stated, “This season’s yield is expected to be abundant and surpass the previous season.”

Zahdi palm trees produce ten or more clusters of dates, and this season is considered “golden,” with all predictions pointing to an above-average production rate.

Ali Al-Dahri, a date merchant, mentioned, “This season is called ‘Al-Kasas,’ meaning the palms are still being watered and prepared until the date-picking season begins in the tenth month.”

Most of the dates currently available in the markets are imported from other cities like Burhi, Ashirsi, and Khayara.