Jerash, Oct. 20 (Petra) -- A research team at the Faisal Agricultural Nursery in Jerash has achieved a milestone in agricultural innovation, successfully completing the first experimental phase of cotton cultivation under local environmental conditions.

The Jerash Directorate of Agriculture announced the success on Monday, noting that the trial aims to determine the feasibility of reintroducing cotton as a strategic crop in the region.

Director of the Jerash Agriculture Directorate, Ola Al-Muhasneh, said the experiment reflects the directorate’s commitment to advancing agricultural research and exploring crops suited to Jordan’s changing climate. "The initial results showed strong germination rates and vigorous plant growth, confirming the success of the first stage," she said.

Al-Muhasneh highlighted the nursery’s role as a hub for modern agricultural practices, including the introduction of volcanic tuff technology for closed-system soilless cultivation, a sustainable technique that conserves water and fertilizers while improving soil aeration and crop yield.

Bahjat Swalmeh, head of the Faisal Agricultural Nursery, explained that the cotton trial was conducted on small plots to assess growth performance and productivity. "Field results revealed excellent adaptation to local conditions and positive response to irrigation and fertilization," he said.

Swalmeh added that the research team is now evaluating fiber quality and yield potential, with plans to issue recommendations for expanding cotton cultivation in suitable areas across Jerash.

The Faisal Agricultural Nursery has become a leading research station for sustainable farming innovation, driving efforts to enhance productivity and introduce climate-resilient crops across Jordan.

//Petra// RZ