Rising temperatures lead to surprise early date harvest in Hoair

BASRA — Farmers in the Hoair subdistrict north of Basra have begun harvesting fresh dates earlier than usual this year, with the Sugar variety ripening weeks ahead of schedule due to elevated temperatures, growers told 964media.

“By the end of June, we usually start harvesting fresh dates from varieties like Khadrawi, Sayer, and Hilali,” said farmer Aqil Al-Hajjaj. “This year, the Sugar variety ripened earlier than usual. It was supposed to mature in mid or late July, but the heat brought the season forward.”

The Barhi variety, considered the most popular among consumers for its taste and quality, continues to ripen slowly and is typically among the last to mature.

A kilogram of fresh dates is currently priced at 5,000 Iraqi dinars, or about $3.57, and remains available only within Basra. Farmers reported improved yields compared to last season, attributing the increase to better maintenance of palm trees.

“The production of palm trees this season is better than last year, thanks to the clear efforts of farmers in maintaining their trees,” Al-Hajjaj said.

The early ripening follows a long wait since spring and will be followed by the scheduled harvesting of additional varieties throughout July and August.