المملكة: 5.26 kg per square meter.. Eastern productivity of blackberries in greenhouses

The branch of the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture in the Eastern Region recorded a productivity of 5.26 kilograms Per square meter of blackberries inside greenhouses during the spring season, through grafting techniques, to reduce dependence on imports and to enhance self-sufficiency and food security.

Blueberry cultivation is witnessing a rapid expansion driven by technical progress and the diversity of modern varieties to meet local demand. This trend comes to enhance the quality of production and provide crops with high nutritional and economic value in the markets.

Multiple varieties of fruit

The Director of the Agriculture Department at the branch of the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture in the Eastern Region, Eng. "Walid Al-Shuwaird"that berry of Early spring fruits are of many varieties and colors.
He indicated that the local varieties include sweet white, gradually dark red, black, which is rich in antioxidants, and violet, which is close to it.

He pointed out "Al-Shuwayrd" Until the flavor of the fruits gradually changes from acidity to sweetness as they mature. Pointing out that these properties make berries one of the popular and desired fruits for different age groups. He added that farmers depend on Grafting techniques to obtain fruits of different colors and sizes from one tree.
He also revealed the introduction of species that tolerate heat and drought, such as the Turkish mulberry, which is distinguished by its abundant production and sweet taste.

A spring crop that supports the economy

Engineer Al-Shuwaird touched on the spread of mulberry cultivation in geographical areas with a suitable climate within the Kingdom. These crops are concentrated in the Eastern Province, specifically Qatif, Al-Ahsa, Al-Baha, Asir, and parts of Riyadh and Al-Qassim, in addition to greenhouses.

He stressed that the spring represents the main season for growing and harvesting berries in Saudi Arabia, with a period not exceeding a month and a half. The flowering and fruiting season actually begins in mid-March and continues until early May.

Al-Shuwaird stressed that berries represent a promising economic crop that reduces dependence on imports and supports agricultural tourism. He considered that the success of its cultivation in open fields and greenhouses directly contributes to the diversification of food sources within the agricultural development strategies in the Kingdom.

He said that harvesting berries requires precise agricultural practices that depend on their full color and the ease of separation from the branch. Farmers prefer to collect the crop in the early morning hours during the months of March and April, after the dew has evaporated, to preserve the softness of the delicate fruits.

Challenges of growing berries

He added that berry fields face continuous agricultural challenges due to whiteflies, spiders, and berry worms that threaten the crop. This requires early agricultural intervention through preventive mechanisms that ensure the protection of trees during periods of flowering and fruiting.

He explained that control steps begin with the natural planting of repellent plants such as mint, basil, and onions around the shrubs. This step is supported by covering the plants with special nets that prevent small insects from infiltrating the fields.

Moderate irrigation and good water drainage play a crucial role in preventing the accumulation of moisture that attracts pests. Regular pruning of the branches contributes to ventilating the tree and reducing insect breeding grounds.

Protecting fruits requires periodic inspection to detect early infections and remove them immediately before they spread to the crop. Environmentally safe organic pesticides, such as garlic solution and neem oil, are used to repel insects with high efficiency.

Harvesting berries represents an economic and nutritional experience that depends on continuous care and periodic monitoring of pests. Sound agricultural practices ensure that an abundant, clean crop reaches the final consumer of the highest quality.

• For more: Follow Khaleejion 24 Arabic, Khaleejion 24 English, Khaleejion 24 Live, and for social media follow us on Facebook and Twitter