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Adana sumac production thrives through unique grafting legacy
In the Saimbeyli district of Adana, a specialized sumac production method developed 20 years ago has become a significant local economic driver. Hazım Ak, known locally as ‘Sumakçı Dede’, pioneered the use of ‘kemikli göz aşısı’ (bud grafting) to transform non-fruiting wild male sumac trees into productive plants.
His son, Naci Ak, continues this agricultural legacy. The process involves harvesting mature red-purple clusters, drying them in the sun, and grinding them into powder. Due to weather conditions, this year’s harvest was delayed until October, whereas September is the standard month for optimal quality.
The high-quality organic sumac is in high demand from cities such as Kahramanmaraş, Gaziantep, and Şanlıurfa. This season, prices have reached between 800 and 900 TL per kilogram. The unique orchards have also attracted interest from academics across Turkey and international researchers.
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- [● 2 SOURCES] Harvesting sumac too early reduces its economic value, sourness, and color quality. www.ilkhaber-gazetesi.com · www.aksiyon.com.tr
- [● 2 SOURCES] Hazım Ak performed the first grafting on non-fruiting wild male sumac trees. www.ilkhaber-gazetesi.com · www.aksiyon.com.tr
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The price of sumac reached 800-900 TL per kilogram this season. www.aksiyon.com.tr
- [● 2 SOURCES] Rainfall caused the sumac harvest to take place in October this year instead of September. www.ilkhaber-gazetesi.com · www.aksiyon.com.tr