Significant Expansion of Cherry Orchards in Herat
Officials from the Directorate of Agriculture, Irrigation, and Livestock in Herat have announced that cherry cultivation in the province has increased significantly in recent years, attracting the attention of many orchard farmers due to its high economic value.
According to the directorate, there are currently over 28,000 hectares of fruit-bearing orchards in Herat, a portion of which is dedicated to cherry cultivation. Local authorities state that the production level of this fruit is also increasing annually.
Bashir Ahmad Ahmadi, Head of Agricultural Affairs in Herat, said that cherry orchards have been established in districts such as Karukh, Guzara, Chesht Sharif, and several other areas, and the expansion process continues. He cited favorable market value and climatic compatibility as key factors driving farmers to develop cherry orchards.
Officials in the Plant Protection Department of Karukh district also emphasize that suitable climate, fertile soil, and adequate water supply have created favorable conditions for the development of commercial cherry orchards.
Local farmers say that cherries bring higher income compared to many other agricultural products, and past experience has shown that this fruit is well suited to Herat’s climatic conditions. They have urged other farmers to pay more attention to planting cherry saplings, as this product can play an important role in increasing household income and strengthening the agricultural economy.
Herat is considered one of the country’s important agricultural provinces, and in recent years, the pace of establishing commercial orchards there has accelerated.
