Chestnut production in Adana Saimbeyli became an alternative to cherries

Starting trial production with 5 chestnut trees at an altitude of 1,200 meters in Saimbeyli, Adana in 2006, Naci Yıldızan obtained high yields from 'Hacı Ömer' variety chestnuts, increased the number of trees to 20, and set an example for regional farmers regarding alternative products.

Naci Yıldızan started getting the first fruits in the third year from the chestnut saplings he planted in his garden in 2006. Observing the yield over time and increasing the number of trees, Yıldızan reported that he expects a yield of approximately 40-50 kilograms per tree this year. Stating that those who previously tried to grow chestnuts in the region could not get a yield, Yıldızan drew attention to the importance of correct variety selection and pollination, and stated that the Hacı Ömer variety is one of the highest quality varieties in Turkey.

Producer Yıldızan noted that last year he sold small chestnuts wholesale at 400 liras per kilogram and large ones at 500 liras. Stating that no pesticides other than water are used in chestnut cultivation, Yıldızan emphasized that the harvest and preservation process in cherries challenges the producer, while chestnuts can be marketed from October until March and April. It was stated that the mountainous structure of Feke and Saimbeyli is suitable for this production. Ahmet Kaytancı, who visited the garden, also stated that they saw promising results for the future of chestnut cultivation, and that the inner fullness and quality are good.