THE frequent rain in Penang, especially in Balik Pulau recently, may put a damper on durian supply this season.
Bao Sheng Durian Farm owner Chang Teik Seng, 60, said there was too much rain in the past three weeks.
“Some durian flowers dropped. If we have lesser flowers, we will have lesser fruits.
“We will have to observe the weather conditions in the coming weeks.
“We may see a 10% drop in durian harvest this season, as compared with last year,” he told Buletin Mutiara in an interview.
Chang said, however, the durian season this year might extend to 70 days, starting from end-May.
“Durian trees at higher altitude may experience slower flowering this season as compared with durian trees at lower altitude,” he said.
Bao Sheng Durian Farm is no stranger to durian lovers. Some visitors had also experienced its Stay + Eat package where they stayed at Bao Sheng Durian Farm and enjoyed fresh King of Fruits.
Chang said that visitors who stayed at the farm would get to taste the unique tingling ‘numb’ sensation from the fruit.
“Durian lovers will be able to enjoy this sensation if the fruit is eaten within 30 minutes after it falls off from the tree. The sensation will disappear over time if it is not eaten,” he said.
However, Chang has not decided whether to reopen the chalets due to the uncertainties caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.
“We sold our durian fruits online and through delivery service last year when Malaysia was first hit by the Covid-19 pandemic. We were unable to open our chalets.
“We have not decided whether to reopen the chalets due to the uncertainties. Moreover, the interstate travel ban has not been lifted.
“We may choose to continue selling our durian fruits online and through delivery service. We are currently doing some upgrading works on our chalets so that we can provide a better experience to our visitors,” he said.
Those who are interested can check out Bao Sheng Durian Farm’s Facebook page or visit durian.com.my for more details.
Story by Christopher Tan
Pix by Darwina Mohd Daud