Ajloun, Aug. 3 (Petra) -- The Agriculture Directorates in Ajloun and Kufranjah have called on farmers and livestock breeders to take precautionary measures to mitigate the impact of the current heatwave, urging adherence to agricultural guidance aimed at protecting crops, fruit trees and livestock from heat stress.

Ajloun Agriculture Director Saitan Al-Sarhan said rising temperatures require farmers to intensify irrigation based on the actual water needs of crops, preferably during the early morning or evening hours to minimize water loss through evaporation.

He also advised against carrying out pruning or fertilization during periods of extreme heat and stressed the importance of regularly monitoring crops for signs of heat stress or pest infestations, which tend to increase during high temperatures. Al-Sarhan encouraged farmers to consult agricultural extension officers for crop-specific technical advice.

Kufranjah Agriculture Director Hazem Al-Amawi said the directorate has stepped up awareness efforts by providing farmers with guidance on best agricultural practices during the heatwave.

He urged farmers to maintain adequate soil moisture, use appropriate mulching and ground cover to reduce the impact of direct sunlight, and avoid applying pesticides or foliar fertilizers during the hottest hours of the day.

Al-Amawi also called on livestock breeders to ensure animals have continuous access to clean drinking water, provide shaded and well-ventilated shelters, and minimize animal movement during midday hours to reduce the risk of heat stress.

Meanwhile, Junaid Agricultural Center Director Reham Al-Momani said the center continues to provide field guidance to farmers, emphasizing the importance of monitoring crop water requirements, caring for newly planted seedlings and summer crops, and avoiding farming practices that could increase plants' exposure to heat stress.

She said these measures will help safeguard crop health and maintain the quality of agricultural production during the current period of high temperatures.

//Petra// RZ