AdvisorLB
Agricultural Supplies

Agricultural Supplies in Lebanon: Seeds, Fertilizers, and Irrigation

AdvisorLB Team
Agricultural Supplies in Lebanon: Seeds, Fertilizers, and Irrigation

Lebanese agriculture spans the Bekaa Valley, Akkar plain, Mount Lebanon terraces, and South Lebanon citrus belts. Each zone has its own supplier network, but most farmers buy from a mix of regional agro-shops and direct importers in Beirut's Sin El Fil and Bekaa's Zahle.

Seeds and saplings

  • Vegetable seeds: Dutch, French, and Israeli (via re-export) hybrids dominate — tomato, cucumber, pepper, lettuce.
  • Potato seed: certified Dutch tubers, sold by the 25 kg bag in Bekaa cooperatives.
  • Fruit saplings: apple, cherry, peach for Bekaa; olive, almond, citrus for the coast.
  • Local heirloom seeds: SeedBank Lebanon and Buzuruna Juzuruna preserve regional varieties.

Fertilizers and amendments

  • NPK compounds: 20-20-20, 15-15-15, or crop-specific blends.
  • Urea, ammonium nitrate, potassium sulfate: bulk imports from Russia, Egypt, or Saudi.
  • Compost and manure: from local poultry farms and dairy operations.
  • Foliar micronutrients: iron, zinc, boron sprays.

Irrigation systems

  • Drip irrigation kits (Netafim, Rivulis, Plastro) are standard for tomato and cucumber.
  • Sprinkler systems for potato and grain.
  • Solar pumps now widespread due to electricity shortages.
  • Greenhouse plastic and mulch films sold by the roll.

Regulations to know

  • Pesticide use restricted to Ministry-approved active ingredients.
  • Imported seeds must carry phytosanitary certificates.
  • Cooperative membership unlocks discounts and government subsidies.