The Najran province in Saudi Arabia (KSA) is renowned for cultivating “Najrani Barley,” which holds significant importance to the locals as it is a cultural heritage with health and nutritional value, reported Akhbaar24. This makes it the best wheat in KSA.
The inhabitants of the region, especially in Najran city and its affiliated governorates, particularly in Habouna and Badr Al Janoub, pay special attention to its cultivation due to the environmental advantages the areas offer.
Preparing the Land
With the onset of October each year, the region’s farmers begin preparing the agricultural land for planting barley seeds.
This preparation involves cleaning the land of harmful weeds and stones. They also check the soil’s fertility and its ability to retain irrigation water.
Subsequently, the farmers sow the seeds and cover them with a thin layer of fertile soil. The farmers use modern irrigation techniques to provide specific and regular water amounts to the plants.
Stages of Barely Cultivation
The farmers state that barley cultivation goes through several stages. The first stage is plowing the land and exposing it to sun and air for adequate time, along with removing harmful weeds.
After that, the land is well-irrigated to moisten the soil, contributing to the production of good and solid wheat grains.
Regarding harvesting methods, they said that today’s methods differ from those practiced by ancestors. In the past, the locals would gather at the time of the barley crop harvest to participate. They used to chant harvest-related songs and praises, expressing gratitude to God for the production.
Best Wheat in the Kingdom
The director of Najran’s Agriculture Department, said that the Najran region is famous for cultivating the best wheat types in the Kingdom.
They stand out for their quality and nutritional value, benefiting from the region’s soil fertility, mild climate, and fresh water.
He also pointed out that the Ministry of Environment branch in the region provides agricultural guidance to farmers on controlling pests and diseases that may hinder wheat cultivation. It works on regularly monitoring fields to implement preventive and curative measures to minimize any adverse effects on the crops.
Moreover, it’s worth noting that the “Slow Food” organization’s Ark of Taste has selected the Najrani Barley as one of 13 products from the Kingdom.
It is a primary ingredient of Najran’s most famous dishes.
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