Off-season pepper harvest begins in Salah Al-Din’s Al-Ishaqi

SALAH AL-DIN– Farmers in Al-Ishaqi, Salah Al-Din province, have begun harvesting peppers during at the end of this autumn season through plastic tunnel farming techniques, enabling the cultivation of this typically summer crop outside its natural growing season.

Saadi Ahmed, a farmer from Kabban village, explained that he starts planting peppers, both hot and sweet varieties, in September. The first harvest occurs in November, with production continuing to supply markets until summer.

The peppers are sold for 1,000 Iraqi dinars ($0.66) per kilogram, a price that reflects the added costs of covered farming, including nylon covers, metal supports, and pesticides.

“This method allows us to provide the local market with peppers from November until summer, especially in areas like Balad and Samarra,” Ahmed told 964media.

“While the price may seem high, it is justified by the expenses involved in creating a suitable environment for off-season cultivation.”

Covered farming techniques, which include using plastic coverings and additional fertilizers, have proven effective in ensuring a steady supply of peppers during the winter months, supporting local markets and providing farmers with a sustainable source of income.