Warm weather has brought forward the harvest for some growers in Penang
Signs are looking good for the upcoming durian season in Penang, Malaysia with hot and dry conditions over recent months bringing an early start.
According to a report from The Star, some orchards have already seen early fruit sets. Grower Tan Chee Keat told The Star around 20 per cent of his treat had begun fruiting earlier than normal and his first fruit would be harvested mid-April.
“The trees are full of flowers now and some have already started fruiting. We just need the dry weather to stay stable now and durian lovers will have a good time in two or three months,” Tang said.
“This means less competition and better business for me. The rest will come from end-April to mid-August.”
While the dry weather had brought the season forward, growers also have to manage the lack of water to avoid heat stress. There was also the risk of too much water affecting the crop down the line as well.
“We water each tree twice a day, morning and evening, just to keep them stable. If the leaves start to wrinkle, that’s a sign they need more water,” Tan said.
“A downpour can cause the flowers to drop. If the weather holds, we expect a long season, with prices becoming more competitive from mid-May into June.”
