March marks the peak of agricultural activity in Syria. It is the month when temperatures balance perfectly with soil moisture, making it the widest window for open-field spring planting and the onset of active vegetative growth for most trees and field crops.
March is the primary month for starting open-field summer crops:
Tomatoes, Cucumbers, Bell Peppers, and Eggplants: Seedlings are transplanted from nurseries to permanent open-field locations across most Syrian regions, provided that the risk of spring frost has completely dissipated.
Squash, Summer Squash, and Melons (Cantaloupe and Watermelon): Seeds can be sown directly into the soil in warmer regions (such as coastal and central areas) or under small plastic covers (tunnels) to protect seedlings from weather fluctuations.
Late Legumes: Green beans can be planted in moderate regions, where sufficient heat is available for rapid germination.
Yellow Corn: Farmers begin preparing the land for the first season of yellow corn, especially in irrigated areas with reliable water supply.
Cotton: In warmer regions (such as the Euphrates and Al-Ghab basins), preparations begin for cotton planting, as this month is ideal for preparing the seedbed and sterilizing the soil.
Forage Crops: Planting alfalfa (lucerne) and summer fodder crops to ensure forage availability for the summer season.
Irrigation: Regular irrigation schedules commence with bud break and the beginning of leaf emergence to meet the plant's water needs, which increase with rising temperatures.
Fertilization: The second and third installments of nitrogenous and potash fertilizers are applied to fruit trees. This stage, which precedes or accompanies flowering, is crucial for strengthening growth and stabilizing fruit set.
Prevention: March is the most critical month regarding fungal diseases (such as powdery mildew and fire blight). Intensive field monitoring must be conducted, and preventive spraying programs should be initiated as needed.
Stem Elongation Stage: Wheat and barley enter the stem elongation stage, a highly sensitive phase requiring moisture availability and avoiding drought stress. Ongoing monitoring for weeds that may have escaped earlier spraying is essential.
Bottom Line: March is the beginning of real production. Well-executed planting this month sets the foundation for crop productivity throughout the season. Adhere to recommended planting distances and irrigation schedules, as unmanaged high-density planting invites disease.
For more specialized guidance and field updates, we invite you to follow the Syrian Agricultural Guide, issued by the Specialized Evidence Center - Al-Mutamayez Team, brought to you with national expertise and sponsored by:
Damascus and Rural Damascus Chamber of Agriculture.
Aleppo Chamber of Agriculture.
Daraa Chamber of Agriculture.
