Field to Fork
There are few fruits as fascinating or as labor intensive as dates. Indeed, one must have a passion for this jewel of fruits to go through the steps it takes to produce the exceptional quality that the Bard Valley growers are known for. The date palms are often 30 or 40 feet tall, and can reach heights of 65 feet or more! That means that to perform the cultural tasks required, workers must be lifted up into the trees as many as 12 times during the growing season. This is an expensive and painstaking process, but one that the growers look forward to nearly every day of the year. Growers and workers alike are committed through their passion for this amazing crop, and no effort is too great. Below you can enjoy a visual odyssey through their world, and come to appreciate what it takes to bring these delicious, sweet fruits from their sunny gardens to your kitchen.
Dethorning
January — February
Depending on the size of the date palm, approximately 800 to 1,600 thorns are taken off of each tree by using large curved knives.
Offshoots
The offshoots are taken off the mother palm and put into the nursery and then planted to create a new date garden.
Pollination
It is essential for each flower bunch to be pollinated evenly on both sides. To ensure even and complete absorption, the pollen is applied in February and March. One male palm can pollinate 48 to 50 female trees.
Thinning
April — May
Bunches are thinned allowing for room to grow and the proper ventilation.
Securing
Bunches are tied and secured firmly to the trees to prevent damage from wind and weight. It also allows for spacing and continued ventilation.
Ringing
In June and July, rings are placed in the center of the bunches to allow continued ventilation.
Bagging
Sacks are placed on the bunches and tied firmly to prevent birds from picking at the ripe fruit and to keep the dates from falling to the ground.
Harvesting
The dates are picked as they mature. Workers must go up into the towering trees multiple times over the harvest season, each time only picking the fruit that is tree ripe, and re-bagging the bunches to let them ripen further.
Sorting
Each date is carefully sorted and graded, first by hand, and then by machine to ensure quality.
Packing
Medjools are packed in a variety of sizes so you can choose what's right for you.
Distribution
Wholesome packed Medjools are distributed into markets around the world.
