In Antalya, a 100% grape harvest is expected this year

Farmers who expect a significant increase in grape production this year also hope for a reasonable rise in prices. Harvest season is approaching in Akseki, known for its grapes and molasses. As grapes begin to appear on the vines, early grapes are expected to be harvested in July. After a low yield last year, producers are anticipating a 100% increase in this year's harvest. Local growers in Akseki are currently pleased with the condition of their vineyards.

Enver Öztürk, who grows grapes on approximately 5 decares of land in Murtiçi District of Akseki, said, "The first type of grape to ripen this season is the İlkeren variety. It will be ready for harvest in 15 days. Our grapes are slowly changing color and we are waiting for their aroma. If all goes well, we will enter the market. This is the result of love and effort. If you care for the vines, they will thrive. You find happiness in nurturing them. After İlkeren, the next variety to ripen is Cardinal, which will remain available until the end of August. Following that will be the Alfons variety. In Murtiçi, it's the best grape variety for the market. This year, there are fewer diseases compared to last year. We expect a 100% increase in our harvest compared to last year. Overall, we have no losses and are very pleased."

Öztürk, who began working in viticulture in 2019, mentioned that he was previously a tradesman in Antalya. Due to the pandemic, he returned to his village and started cultivating grapes on his inherited land. He said, "I worked as a tradesman in Antalya for 43 years. I left that job due to the pandemic and started grape cultivation. I have been working in this field for 3 years now."

Regarding the expected harvest, Öztürk stated, "The İlkeren grapes have started to ripen. We will begin harvesting in 15 days and put them on sale. After that, we will have Cardinal, Redklap, and Alfons varieties. This year, we are in a better situation compared to last year. Last year, we had a very low yield, about 30%, and the grapes were mostly suitable for making molasses rather than for table use. This year, we expect a 100% increase in yield. Thank God, our expectations are very high. We expect very good productivity this year. Our grapes are excellent. We will share them with family and friends. The İlkeren grapes will be on the table in 15 days. Cardinal varieties will be available by the end of July. Redklap and Alfons will be available between August 15-20, and we will make molasses from the remaining grapes in September, which will sweeten our winter."

Öztürk noted that they have not faced any issues with irrigation, "Our vineyards use an elevated system. We have drip irrigation systems, and we have no water shortages. We have a cooperative irrigation system and underground irrigation. By opening our irrigation hours, the system waters itself for 3-5 hours. We use professional systems for pest control, which enhances productivity and yield. Everything has been very good so far, and we hope for a 100% yield."

He emphasized that viticulture is a significant livelihood source for the Murtiçi region, "There are many serious workers in this field. Some friends cultivate nearly 10 decares of vines. Grape cultivation requires love and daily care. If you take care of them, they will take care of you. It also provides physical exercise and contributes to the family budget."

Öztürk expressed confidence that prices would rise in line with inflation, "Prices will be determined in 20 days when the market opens. Our products generally go to tourism areas, and hotels buy them. However, I want to say that I came from the city to work here. I wake up early and work for 2-3 hours in the morning and evening. My expectations are met at a level equivalent to a minimum wage. I advise those who want to escape the city or retire to avoid wasting away in the city. They should return to their villages, restore their lands, and have a productive activity. It will contribute to their economy, provide exercise, and keep them healthy. I was a heart patient, but since I started viticulture in my village, I am feeling better."

Öztürk also mentioned that there are no market issues with their grapes, "Our grapes have no market problems. They are sold wholesale as far as Central Anatolia. We have no trouble finding buyers. Akseki grapes and molasses are famous. They are high-quality grapes that everyone can consume. The altitude here is neither too high nor too low. The climate is very suitable for grapes. You can't find grapes like Akseki's anywhere else. Akseki's grapes are a brand. I recommend them to everyone. Our market is excellent. I will harvest 10 tons from my 5-decare vineyard."

In Akseki, famous for its molasses, traditional low systems of viticulture have been replaced with high systems. Since 1990, viticulture has been revitalized in the region, now covering 25,000 decares. High-system viticulture has developed significantly, especially in Akseki, Taşlıca/Murtiçi District, and Güçlüköy.