Blacksmith Jujube Product Description and Distinctive Features: Demirci Hünnap refers to the fruit harvested from the Zizyphus jujuba Mill. species trees, which are cultivated under the unique soil and climatic conditions of Demirci. These trees, which lose their leaves in the winter, can grow up to 4-5 meters in height. They bloom with yellow flowers between April and May and emit a pleasant fragrance. The Demirci Hünnap fruit, initially olive-green in color, gradually transforms into a dark red hue as it ripens. Known for its sweetness and juiciness, Demirci Hünnap is perfect for consumption in both its fresh and dried forms. The trees that produce Demirci Hünnap flourish in sandy-loamy and calcareous soils, demonstrating a strong ability to withstand water stress and intense heat. These trees bloom with yellow flowers during the spring, and their fruits mature as autumn approaches. Propagation is achieved through methods such as root cuttings from existing trees, seeds, and grafting materials. Since these trees are resistant to pests and diseases, there is no need for pesticide use. Furthermore, chemical fertilization is avoided, thanks to the abundant organic matter in the soil. Production Method: Since Demirci Hünnap seeds have a tough exterior, three different techniques are employed to aid in germination. The seeds are either individually sanded to thin the shell, soaked in warm water for 1-2 days to soften, and then planted in beds or pots for germination, or soaked in diluted acid for 1-2 days before being sown in beds or pots. In another method, the seeds are cracked before being sown in beds or pots to encourage germination. Regardless of the method used, the seeds typically germinate within 90-120 days, but the cracking method results in higher germination rates. The seedlings that grow from seed propagation are nurtured in pots or beds until they are ready to be transferred to the production area. Production with Root Cuttings: Cuttings taken from basal shoots can either be directly planted in the field or cultivated in tubes or pots for production. Production by Grafting: This technique is utilized to restore vitality and enhance productivity in trees that have experienced a decline in yield. Methods such as bud grafting and whip-and-tongue grafting are employed. Grafting should take place at the end of winter or the beginning of spring. Since grafting pieces are taken from the second-year shoots of highly productive jujube trees, which are more mature and suitable for grafting, the procedure is carried out in late winter or early spring. Cultivation of Demirci Hünnap: In the seed propagation method, seedlings are planted in the production area at a spacing of at least 5x5m during the winter when they reach a height of about 15 cm. In grafting production, grafted plants are also spaced at least 5x5m apart. During planting, well-rotted animal manure is applied to the soil. While organic fertilization may be used as needed during cultivation, it is important to avoid chemical fertilization and pesticide application. These trees are late-flowering and are not affected by late spring frosts. Demirci Hünnap trees, which flower at the end of April or in May, are resilient to late spring frosts. Demirci Hünnap trees are lightly pruned in the winter of their third year to shape them, and their growth is carefully monitored. The trees start to bear fruit in the summer after the first pruning. Due to their slow growth, these trees do not require excessive pruning. The trees are trained using the goblet training system through pruning. Irrigation enhances both the quality and yield of trees that are watered. Drip and flood irrigation methods are used for watering. However, the trees are resilient to water stress, and fruit can still be harvested even without irrigation.