Date harvesting is a traditional process carried out in date palm plantations. Here are the basic steps for date harvesting:
Determining the optimal time to harvest: dates are harvested when they have reached the right degree of ripeness. This timing varies depending on the date variety and the desired flavor. Ripe dates have a characteristic color and are soft, sweet and juicy.
Climbing harvesters: since date palms can reach an impressive height, skilled harvesters climb up the palms to reach the date panicles. They use special harnesses and safety equipment to work safely up the palms.
Harvesting date panicles or individual dates: Dates grow on panicles located on the palm branches. Harvesters either carefully cut the entire panicle for later processing on the ground or pick only individual dates if the ripening process of dates on a panicle has progressed differently.
Sorting and cleaning: After harvesting, date panicles are inspected for quality and freed from excess leaves and twigs. This step serves to prepare the dates for further processing and the packaging process.
Sorting by quality and size: The dates are sorted and categorized by size and quality. This sorting ensures that we receive dates that meet our requirements.
Packing and shipping: After sorting, the dates are packed into our different packing sizes and prepared for refrigerated shipping to Germany.
Date harvesting requires care and experience to ensure that the dates are of the highest quality. This process often involves manual labor and respects the centuries-old tradition of date cultivation.