The Thermal Potential for Developing Fig (Ficus carica L.) Cultivation in Iraq

Abstract

The research aims to investigate the thermal potential for the development of fig (Ficus carica L.) cultivation in Iraq in order to analyze the effects of temperature on its growth and productivity, and to determine the extent to which the prevailing thermal conditions in Iraq are suitable for the requirements of this tree. Therefore, the research adopted both descriptive and analytical approaches through the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), in addition to calculating and estimating the accumulated heat units for fruit-bearing Ficus carica L. during the growing season. The study also identified regions suitable for fig cultivation and production in Iraq. The results show that the availability of moderate to high temperatures during the growing season contributes to improving fig productivity and fruit quality. Furthermore, the results indicate that Iraq possesses relatively suitable thermal potential for expanding and developing Ficus carica L. cultivation, which provides promising opportunities for improving this agricultural sector and increasing production, provided that these climatic potentials are properly utilized