The palm tree of the date, also known as Phoenix dactylifera, is a very old flowering species grown to produce delicious fruit. It’s widely grown throughout the Middle East, North Africa (MENA), and Southern Asia. Dates that are edible and other date palm products contribute to the survival and security of people living in these areas, providing food for more than 5000 years. Dates have been an essential diet since before the dawn of time.
Origin of Date
Because of the lengthy history of date cultivation, the exact location of the date palm remains a mystery. The fossil records indicate that this date plant was present for at least 50 millennia. The evidence suggests it was derived from its home in the Fertile Iraq and Iran. Early in the 18th and 19th centuries, Spanish missionaries facilitated the diffusion of date palms throughout the globe and brought them into North America.
We have previously discussed the roots of the mazafati date. They originated in the southern areas of Iran, specifically in Bam. This region’s humid and hot climate, as well as the well-groomed soil, is ideal for cultivating premium dates.
The rise of date varieties in Iran has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. It is home to numerous dates, such as Mazafati dates. They are among the most desirable options due to their unique look, taste, and nutritional value.
In Iran, dates are produced, and trade in dates is integral to the agricultural industry and the general economic situation. It is the world’s largest exporter and trader of dates, with Mazafati dates among the most sought-after and well-known kinds.
How to Plant Date Palms
When to Plant Date Palms
The early spring or fall plant is ideal for date palms. If you are transferring the tree instead of starting from seeds, plant it on a day that’s not too hot and humid. If it’s not, the tree may suffer damage to its fronds when it’s relocated.
How to Care for Date Fruit Palms
Light
It is in harmony with its preferential humid, dry climate; the date palm enjoys plenty of sun. It will tolerate mild shade, but it is more comfortable in full sunlight, which means a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunshine on most days.
Soil
The soil’s drainage is the primary aspect when deciding which area to plant your palm. The date palm is a great choice for sandy or loamy soils. It tolerates salt. It likes slightly acidic pH to an alkaline.
Water
The date palm can withstand drought and is tolerant of drought, particularly after it’s established. However, during peak fruiting and flowering times, the plant should have enough water to ensure a healthy crop. Young trees require greater amounts of moisture in comparison to mature trees. Do not let the soil completely dry; however, you must also stop the soil from becoming too wet.
Temperature and Humidity
The trees they grow in are a fan of dry, hot, and bright conditions. The temperature has to be at least 95°F to allow pollination to happen. The date palm can withstand temperatures as low as 20 degrees F. But cold temperatures can harm the fronds or end the tree’s life. In the case that the date palm produces, it is also best in warm, dry conditions. A lot of humidity and water could cause rotting.
Fertilizer
Manure is an ideal choice for fertilizing your palms of dates. If you prefer to use special fertilizer for palm trees, that is advised. Apply fertilizer in accordance with the label’s instructions at the end of winter or the beginning of spring to prepare the tree for bloom and fruit growth in the coming months.
Pollination
Date palms are separate tree species for males and females; only female trees have fruit. At least one male tree should be planted for every six female plants. The wind carries out pollination.
Date Fruit Cultivation
The cultivation of dates is currently taking place throughout a wide range of countries and regions worldwide; in a recent report, Egypt is the top country in the production of dates, with a production of 1.6 million tonnes. This is followed by Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Algeria, which contribute significantly to the world’s total harvest.
A group of researchers attempted to germinate an old date palm seed, which was 2000 years old. The experiment was successful, resulting in the first known human-assisted, verified germination of a seed. It was given the name Methuselah in honor of the Biblical person who lived to 969 years old. Following this feat, six additional preserved seeds were sown using the same method. After maturation, the pollen of Methuselah was utilized to pollinate a modern female plant, which then developed fruits.
A mature date palm may grow to heights of between 15 and 25 meters, with trunks comprised of robust cellulose fibers. They begin producing fruits after 4 to 5 years, and they can last for up to 150 years. Every tree is capable of producing around 150 kilos of fruits each year. Numerous different varieties of date palms grow worldwide; in actual fact, date palms cover 3% of the surface that is cultivated.
Date palms flourish in dry, warm, or humid environments. For a date palm to grow at home, gather date seeds and then soak them in cool water to wash away the fruit debris. Then, a damp towel may be used to help germinate the seeds. After visible sprouts, they are in good condition to be planted. A mixture of palm soil or sandy soil is ideal for planting date seeds. A regular care schedule and patience are essential, as plants can take as long as four years to grow.
Conclusion
Dates are nature’s superfood, and many nutritionists believe they are the alternative to sugar and a healthy snack before and after a workout session. You can learn more about benefits of dates and different types of dates in our previously published articles.
