The grape harvest season has commenced in the Wilayat of Yanqul, A'Dhahirah Governorate, Oman, running until early August. The area covers around 13 acres with about 2,600 grape trees, as noted by Salim bin Suhail Al Alawi, Director of the Agriculture and Water Resources Department in Yanqul. These grapes fulfill the local demand during summer.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Water Resources supports grape growers with technical assistance. This includes guidance on planting distances, trellis designs, pest management, and irrigation to ensure water-efficient practices. Al Alawi mentioned that this initiative contributes to sustainable farming income and better resource optimization.
Grapevine expertise is shared with neighboring regions to enhance communal agriculture practices. The Ministry provides grape seedlings, preventive spraying, and fertilization schedules. This preserves the cultural and agricultural legacy, optimizing Oman's fertile environment for crop production.
Qais bin Nasser Al Farsi, a local grape farming project owner, has engaged in commercial cultivation for 15 years. He stresses the need for ongoing care of vineyards, covering soil preparation, fertilization, and irrigation. Al Farsi has diversified by introducing international grape varieties like Taifi, American, and Turkish alongside local black and white grapes, offering varied flavors.
Source: Times of Oman