Farmers in Souq Al-Shuyukh preserve farming legacy with local lettuce variety

DHI QAR — In Souq Al-Shuyukh, local farmers continue to cultivate a prized variety of lettuce known as “Khas Al-Dira” or “Al-Wilaya” for its delicate leaves, maintaining a tradition of seed preservation that has been passed down for generations.

Farmers carefully select plants for seed production each season. They scatter the seeds on the ground and allow the lettuce to grow naturally. Once mature, only a few standout seedlings are chosen and protected to obtain their seeds for future planting. After harvesting, the seeds are left to dry in the sun—a vital step to prevent moisture and mold—before being stored in plastic or glass containers and treated with fungicide. However, untreated seeds deteriorate if stored for two years or more.

Jawad Kazem, a local farmer, told 964media, “We propagate lettuce seeds, inheriting them from our fathers and grandfathers, who used to extract the seeds.” He explained that lettuce farming in the area typically begins in December and ends in April.

Kazem also noted the specific growing conditions required for the crop. “Lettuce needs a specific type of soil to grow well. It does not thrive near palm trees but requires fertile land, open air, sunlight, and a cool climate with rain,” he said.

Historically, the region achieved self-sufficiency in lettuce production, with many residents cultivating the crop in areas such as Msaijeen, Al-Alwa, and Al-Bandariyat, reducing the need for imports from other governorates.

Jobs in agriculture are dying

What do you think?