Najran, 08 August 2023, In the picturesque Najran Valley, a mesmerizing sight awaits as palm groves extend as far as the eye can see. These verdant trees, with their bountiful fruits, serve as a testament to the unwavering determination of the ancestors who diligently planted palm trees in the region in recent decades. Their efforts have yielded remarkable results, giving rise to a plethora of rare and unique palm varieties as well as an abundance of delectable dates that narrate the rich history of this land. In the Najran region and its provinces, the date palm stands as a testament to ancient history. With a staggering 526 thousand palm trees, this region boasts a thriving local economy, bolstering employment opportunities and rural tourism. The significance of these trees extends beyond their economic contributions, as they play a vital role in supporting the date manufacturing industries. Moreover, they hold cultural and traditional value, with their trunks utilized in the production of furniture and building materials and their fibers woven into mats, baskets, bags, and other heritage crafts. In a recent interview, Farmer Saleh Abdullah, a prominent figure in the palm grove industry, confirmed that the highly anticipated harvest has commenced in the region. The early harvest has already seen the collection of various date varieties, including Khalas, Barhi, and Majdouli, among others. However, it is the upcoming harvest season of the region's renowned dates, such as Bayadh, Mawakil, Birni, and Rutab, that has garnered significant attention. Scheduled to begin in mid-August, these dates are widely recognized for their exceptional quality and are highly sought after by consumers across the Kingdom. In an exclusive interview, farmer Mahdi Al-Saqour shed light on the significance of the date and palm industries in the region. Al-Saqour emphasized the economic and social importance of this industry, highlighting various aspects such as the production process, cultivation techniques, meticulous care, and strategic marketing preparations. Notably, the dates produced in Najran have garnered immense popularity due to their exceptional quality and delightful taste. Al-Saqour attributed this success to the region's fertile soil, abundant fresh water supply, and favorable atmospheric conditions that create an ideal environment for palm tree cultivation. In a collaborative effort between the Najran Horticultural Research Center and the National Agricultural Research Center, significant strides are being made in the field of palm propagation. The focus lies on two carefully chosen palm varieties, namely "Bayad and Mawakil". Through the utilization of "flowering inflorescences", researchers are diligently cultivating tissues for these varieties. The ultimate goal of this endeavor is to ensure agricultural sustainability and safeguard the existence of these rare date varieties. The center takes the initiative to arrange informative workshops for farmers in the region, shedding light on the ministry's crucial role in safeguarding rare and unique plant species. These workshops also aim to educate farmers about the implementation of modern propagation techniques, which prove to be more effective than conventional methods involving branching.
