Current hot season puts the heat on durian supply

GEORGE TOWN: Even durians have taken a hit from the heat. Durian lovers will be disappointed to learn that the supply of the King of Fruits is expected to drop by up to 40% due to the hot weather.

Bao Sheng Durian Farm owner Chang Zhi Vooi said the prolonged heatwave had badly affected the durian trees.

“Due to the hot weather, the trees are not getting enough water and we have to water them everyday.

“There are seven water pipes to ‘shower’ the trees every four hours,” he said yesterday.

Chang, a third-generation farmer, said many unripe fruits had dropped off.

However, he pointed out that the durian season this year could be longer as new flowers were still blooming.

“This year, we can expect durians from May until the end of July.

“However, it will be a smaller harvest compared to last year. A tree can produce more than 200 fruits, but this year, we may get only about 100 plus,” he said.

Green Acre Sustainable Farm owner Eric Chong said the supply in his orchard was expected to drop by between 25% and 30%.

“One of my Little Red durian trees is also dying as the fruits are absorbing the nutrients from the tree, thus leaving it without the necessary minerals to survive,” he said.

Chong is hoping for rain to come soon.

Meanwhile, Penang Water Supply Corporation Sdn Bhd chief executive officer Datuk Jaseni Maidinsa has reminded Penangites to continue conserving water and use it wisely.

“The capacity at the Air Itam Dam stands at 61%, which can last for 60 days,” he said.