Academic grows six grape varieties using water-saving methods, opens farm to fellow growers

WASIT — Former academic Hatem Al-Ruwaished has successfully cultivated six types of grapes on a three-dunum plot in the Dahira area of Kut, using modern irrigation techniques aimed at conserving water and preventing soil salinity.

“This was my first attempt at grape cultivation in Kut, and I consider it successful by all standards,” Al-Ruwaished told 964media.

Though the initiative is not commercial, Al-Ruwaished sees the project as a form of applied research. He distributes the harvest free of charge to poor families and acquaintances in the city. “The produce is distributed freely because I consider the farm a research station,” he said.

Previously focused on palm cultivation, Al-Ruwaished turned his attention to grapes after noting that most grape farming in Iraq occurs in Salah Al-Din, Babil, and parts of northern Wasit. “I noticed that grapes are cultivated in Salah Al-Din, Babil, and some areas of northern Wasit, so I decided to try it in Kut,” he said.

Using a regulated irrigation system, he successfully grew six grape varieties while managing water consumption and soil health. Al-Ruwaished now plans to expand the vineyard with additional types and is inviting farmers from across Iraq to observe his methods.

“This experiment is open to all farmers in the governorate and across Iraq to learn about the cultivation, irrigation, fertilization, and pest control methods we used,” he said.

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