Damascus,SANA – Syria has approved two high-yield wheat varieties“Sham 13” and “Buhouth 13”—designed to enhance irrigated farming and strengthen national food security, agricultural authorities announced.
The new strains, developed over seven years by the General Commission for Scientific Agricultural Research in coordination with ICARDA, show strong resistance to disease and environmental stress. They are tailored for use in provinces such as Homs, Hama, Daraa, and Damascus countryside.
“Sham 13” produces up to 6,500 kg per hectare and features superior spike density and grain count. “Buhouth 13,” developed at the Izraa Research Station, averages 5,900 kg per hectare and offers high protein and gluten content, with favorable traits for straw and livestock feed.
The varieties will be handed over to the General Organization for Seed Multiplication for large-scale propagation and farmer distribution.
Officials said the move reflects Syria’s broader strategy to adapt agriculture to climate challenges while increasing productivity and resilience in key crops.
The National Variety Approval Committee formally endorsed both varieties on August 5.
Adnan/Manar
