Charmahal and Bakhtiari – In an innovative agricultural shift, Kiar County, located in the southwestern Charmahal and Bakhtiari Province, has launched its first commercial gladiolus cultivation project spanning 4.5 hectares, poised to yield approximately 500,000 premium-quality flower stems this season.

 

The Agricultural Organization's provincial branch confirmed the initiative following an inspection tour by agricultural experts from Dezak Center to the demonstration farm in Qaleh Salim village.

 

Kourosh Rezaee, Acting Director of Kiar's Agricultural Management, highlighted the strategic advantages of this pilot project: "Gladiolus presents an ideal combination of commercial viability and environmental sustainability. With its strong market demand, moderate water needs, and natural drought tolerance, it's perfectly suited to our region's conditions while aligning with national water conservation priorities."

 

The operation employs precision drip irrigation technology to maximize water efficiency, complemented by organic weed management practices.

 

Project coordinator Jamshidi outlined the initiative's broader objectives: Diversifying local agriculture with high-value alternative crops; Implementing climate-smart water management practices; and Increasing profitability for smallholder farmers.

 

"This pilot could revolutionize floriculture in our province," Jamshidi added. "Successful implementation would create new economic opportunities while conserving our precious water resources."