Batman sunflower production project falls short of targets

Efforts to expand sunflower production in Batman as a planned oilseed crop have not yet reached desired levels, according to Ebubekir Doğan, head of the Batman branch of the Chamber of Agricultural Engineers (ZMO).

The project aims to introduce sunflower as a secondary crop following wheat to serve as an alternative to corn. Corn cultivation in the region is noted for being highly intensive and depleting soil nutrients. By implementing a crop rotation system, the project intends to prevent soil exhaustion and desertification.

While sunflowers were historically grown in the region for table or snack use, the current Ministry of Agriculture initiative focuses on large-scale oil production. However, challenges remain, including the fact that the sunflower growing season coincides with the region's hot and dry summer months, requiring significant irrigation.