Farmers in Duluiya save crops with plastic tunnel farming during cold snap

SALAH AL-DIN — Farmers in the Nahrain subdistrict of Duluiya managed to save their okra and other crops from an unexpected cold snap that damaged farms in surrounding areas, local officials said. Although some growers suffered heavy losses, those who invested in plastic tunnel farming were able to protect their fields.

Some farmers who purchased cheap, low-quality plastic paid the price, with crops such as squash, tomatoes, eggplants, apples, plums, citrus fruits, cucumbers, fava beans, grapes, and barley among those affected by the freeze. In contrast, fields covered with thicker tarp fared better.

Despite the challenges, farmers assured residents that large quantities of high-quality okra will be available at affordable prices.

“We controlled the situation during the cold wave, though we lost some of our crops,” said Mohammed Enad, a farmer in Nahrain. “But compared to farms in Al-Mahatta, Al-Ajiliya, and Al-Mu’tasim, which lost most of their harvest due to using poor-quality plastic, we’re in a much better position.”

Enad explained that using thicker Lebanese plastic comes at a higher cost but ensures better crop protection.

“We planted Sultana and Lahlouba okra seeds, which are known for their taste and size. They’re called ‘Batra,’ ‘Seba’iya,’ and ‘Rafi’a’, and we assure citizens that they will be available in large quantities at reasonable prices,” he said.

Qusai Mohammed Mez’al, head of the Nahrain Agriculture Department, said the area is a key producer of okra, with 700 dunams of farmland dedicated to the crop across Hawi Albu Faraj, Juwairat, Um Shuayfa, Hawija Sinjar, and the Al-Farajiya Association.

“The crops that were affected include squash, tomatoes, eggplants, cucumbers, and fava beans, along with alfalfa, clover, and barley. Orchards of apples, plums, grapes, and citrus trees were also damaged,” he said.