The rainfed fig system of Estahban

Estahban, with its temperate and arid climate, is nestled in a vast plain that is surrounded by towering mountains on all sides. The rainfed fig cultivation area in Estahban covers 22,950 hectares. The average annual rainfall in this region has been reported as 354.1 millimeters. The rainfed fig system of Estahban is situated in the Estahban Plain, Ech, Khana Kat and Roniz.

Despite being situated on steep slopes and rugged terrain at high altitudes, rainfed fig cultivation in Estahban has persevered as a national treasure and a legacy passed down through generations, thanks to the tireless efforts of past generations. 

The passion and creativity of hardworking orchardists, evidenced in their skillful terracing and bench-making within rocky terrains, with timely planting, cultivation, harvesting, and maintenance, have enabled these persevering gardeners to produce sweet and delicious fruit with greater resilience and endurance.

Fig trees thrive in a wide range of soils, including sedimentary soils, sandy-loamy soils, heavy clay soils, and even slightly saline and alkaline soils with PH 6-7/8. Their adaptability allows them to flourish in well-drained conditions.

The most significant threat to rainfed fig cultivation is precipitation in late August, September, and the first half of October. Joxo-ov-giri is the local term used for the irrigation method of fig trees. This action causes the celestial precipitations to gather during rainy times and be directed to the base of the fig tree.