Palm crops and their economic and industrial importance in Libya

Abstract

The blessed palm tree is considered the greatest food-producing tree in the desert areas in the past, where it is called the fruit of the desert. Its cultivation is widespread In the Arab oases and represents an essential factor in adapting to the appropriate conditions for the settlement of the population and using it in their lives not only as a food ingredient, but also as an industrial, fertilizer, and environmentally friendly product. Today, it has become of economic importance.  At the local and international levels, therefore, Atlas Company chose to launch the Nakhalati project due to Its agricultural importance in the Arab world, from Morocco and Mauritania to the Arabian Gulf. Today, it has become a major partner in the agricultural investment sector. It has also become a symbol of the desert environment

with it’s ability to adapt to drought and high temperatures, in addition to being a food source.  It has high energy that can be stored and transported, a source of shade and protection from desert winds, and an environmental, social and economic balance factor. It is considered one of the means of combating desertification in many Arab countries because it provides protection for the trees and plants that are grown with It and under it. It forms the backbone of agricultural activity, as It is the main source of livelihood.  The inhabitants of the oases eat from its dates, drink Its juice, build their homes from Its trunks and leaves, make their baskets, dishes, and household equipment from its fronds, and use its waste to make fodder for animals and organic fertilizers for the soil.

The research included an introduction, four sections, and a conclusion. The first dealt with the growth of palm trees, their original habitat, their geographical distribution, their chemical composition and morphological description, in addition to environmental requirements, automatic pollination and propagation techniques, while the second dealt with the Importance of religious palm trees, as they were mentioned in the Holy Qur’an 22 times, in addition to  To Its economic importance, as It constitutes the second economic wealth in Libya after oil, as well as its nutritional and coordination importance, with Its beautiful view and the many varieties used to decorate homes, streets, gardens, etc., In addition to the Al-Laqbi drink, which is a pure wine-colored alcoholic drink with a delicious taste. As for the third  He talked about the climatic factors affecting the palm tree, Including heat, light, wind, and rain, as well as humidity, and the extent of Its effect on the growth of the palm tree and the extent of the palm tree’s adaptation to It. The fourth part included talking about the most important by-products of the palm tree. In addition to the primary product, dates, there are many secondary products such as paper making, palm waste recycling, and the production of boards.  Fibrous wood Is used in military industries, as well as the production of animal feed, alternatives to organic fertilizer, as well as the manufacture of biofuel (coal – firewood), in addition to other handicrafts such as ropes, baskets, dishes, etc. The research concluded with a conclusion that Included the most important findings of the research and a number of recommendations.  Which may help improve palm growth and multiplication and ways to benefit from it as an economic wealth.