Farmers in Jabal Akhdar, Dakhliyah are preparing for the pomegranate harvest season beginning in August, expecting a bumper yield due to favourable weather conditons.

According to the Department of Agriculture and Water Resources in the wilayat, the number of pomegranate trees in the region exceeds 27,000.

Last year, the pomegranate crop reached a market value of RO18.7mn. More than 90% of the fruit harvested were healthy, following the implementation of an effective pest control programme by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources (MAFWR). 

As part of this initiative, over 42mn beneficial insects were released during the 2023 season. This method, a component of the integrated management of the pomegranate fruit borer butterfly, utilises alternative and modern control techniques.

Omair bin Mohammad al Fahdi, head of the Agriculture Development and Water Resources Department in Jabal Akhdar, reported that the average yield of viable trees was 88.7% in the 2022 season. On average, each tree produced an estimated 55 fruits. 

Fahdi also noted that in the upcoming season, a surge in pomegranate yield is anticipated due to favourable rain and plentiful water. “The harvest is set to coincide with the 2023 Jabal Akhdar Festival, attracting an influx of visitors.”

Jabal Akhdar’s pomegranates, coveted in the Nizwa market and neighbouring wilayats, have seen increasing demand over past seasons. Prices, however, fluctuate based on the season, production volume and market demand.

To tackle the pomegranate pest, MAFWR initiated a programme to propagate Trichogramma eggs, a parasite aiding in pest control. The effort not only curbed the prevalence of the fruit pest but also improved  yield and fruit quality.

This programme also developed a precise system to monitor pest activity across all the wilayat’s villages through early detection teams. 

The pomegranate harvest season in Jabal Akhdar not only enriches the local economy but also diversifies the governorate’s tourism appeal, Fahdi added. “The harvest season adds to the region’s recreational, adventure, natural, and heritage tourism attractions. Visitors can learn about and partake in the pomegranate harvest, experiencing a unique aspect of Jabal Akhdar’s seasonal offerings.”