Pistachio growing and harvesting has a very long history in many countries like Iran. In the heart of the Middle East, Iran, there are many vast pistachio farms. These farms need to have certain conditions to be suitable for pistachio’s growth such as a hot weather and a dry climate. Hot and dry summers as well as cold (non-chilling) winters are key factors resulting in a high quality deep green kernel of pistachios. The harvest of Pistachio season begins in the end of summer and continues until the early autumn. Iran is famous for its high quality and demand pistachio because it has the perfect climate. Iran’s pistachio production is predicted to rocket by 55,000 tons till the end of March compared to the last year, reaching 220,000 tons. Each variety of Pistachio has its own maturation and harvest time and is dependent upon many climatic factors as well as impacting elements during the growing season. For the same variety, maturity can even vary within the same orchard block and even within the same tree.
Iranian pistachios are a great source of healthy fats, anti-inflammatory traits, fiber, protein, antioxidants and various nutrients including vitamin B6. There is no doubt that pistachio has a great impact on your overall health. and it is good to know, that pistachios are a great source of Potassium and anti-oxidants also.
When Is Pistachio Season in Iran?
In Iran, pistachio season typically starts in late August and continues through September, with harvesting often extending into early October depending on the region and weather conditions. In most years, the new crop becomes widely available from September onward, especially as different pistachio varieties reach maturity at slightly different times. Because factors like summer heat, orchard location, and even tree-to-tree variation can affect ripening, the exact harvest window may shift by a couple of weeks.
Pistachio Harvest Calendar by Variety (Iran)
Harvest timing of different pistachio varieties are further discussed below:
| Variety | Typical Bloom Time | Typical Harvest Window | Main Growing Region (Iran) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ahmad Aghaei | Early April | Early September to Mid-October | Kerman (commonly cultivated) |
| Jumbo (Kalle Ghouchi) | Spring (varies) | Mid to Late September | Iran’s major pistachio farms (widely supplied) |
| Akbari | Spring (varies) | Late September | Iran (commercial orchards) |
| Fandoghi | Spring (varies) | September to October | Kerman Province |
- Akbari Pistachio
Akbari pistachio is a late-bearing fruit and its harvesting time is late September. Therefore, if you are an interested client in Akbari pista, you need to wait longer in the crop season for the new harvest. Iranian pista Akbari is famous for its perfect taste. The kernel is green and the skin is stained and dull.
- Ahmad Aghaei Pistachio
The tree of Ahmad Aghaei Pistachio starts blooming in the first weeks of April. The harvest season for new crop is in late September until Mid- October each year. Ahmad Aghaei Pistachio belongs in long pistachio category. It also has a lighter shell compared to Akbari pistachio which adds to its marketability. The harvesting time of this commercial nut variety starts in early September right after the growth maturation. Ahmad Aghaei nut has a good red color of kernel and is long recognized for its good taste.
- Jumbo pistachio
Iran supplies the majority of jumbo pistachio in the world. After completing its growth cycle in vast farms of Iran, Persian Jumbo Pistachio (kalle ghouchi) is harvested in mid and late September. The warm and dry climate of Iran affects the quality and Nutritional content of pistachio. Kalle ghouchi pistachio which is also known as jumbo pistachio is the best seller pistachio type in the market for its big kernel size.
- Fandoghi pistachio
Persian round Fandoghi pistachio has a round and small nut with a tiny shell. Round Fandoghi pistachio is considered as one of the most famous pistachio types. This type of pistachio which is also known as the round pistachio is the most commercial pistachio amongst all types of pistachio in Iran. Cultivated mostly in Kerman province, Fandoghi Pistachio has the production record among the Persian pistachio varieties. Under normal condition the harvest time of Fandoghi Pistachio is in September and October. If you want to know where to buy the best pistachios, you can read Where to buy Iranian pistachios article.
All kinds of Pistachios have several health benefits such as:
• Improving the heart functionality and decreasing the cardiovascular events and incidents.
• Pistachios are considered weight-loss friendly and their fiber and protein can make you feel fuller for longer periods of time.
• An excellent source of heart-healthy minerals
Fresh vs Dried Pistachios: Which One Is Seasonal?
Fresh pistachios are truly seasonal because they are harvested with their green outer hull and are best consumed within a short window. In most cases, the fresh pistachio season lasts only 2 to 4 weeks, usually around the peak of harvest in late summer to early autumn. Dried pistachios, however, are processed after harvest to reduce moisture, which makes them available year-round and easier to store and ship. For buyers who want the “new crop” taste and aroma, the best time to purchase is typically right after harvest begins, while dried pistachios remain a reliable option throughout the year.
Iran pistachio price
Iran pistachio price depends on the type and size of Persian pistachio that you request for, the wholesale price of pistachio in Iran depends on the variety, kernel size and shell type.
The exact season pistachios can vary due to the type of pistachio you are looking for. Each type of pistachio has its own unique benefits and taste depending on the place and the season it has been harvested so don’t miss out and try each type of pistachio fruits at least once.
FAQs
1. When is pistachio season in Iran?
Pistachio season in Iran usually starts in late August and continues through September, sometimes extending into early October depending on the variety and region.
2. How long does fresh pistachio season last?
Fresh pistachios are typically available for only 2 to 4 weeks during peak harvest in late summer.
3. Are pistachios harvested once a year?
Yes. Pistachios are generally harvested once per year, usually at the end of summer.
4. What does “new crop pistachio” mean?
“New crop” refers to pistachios that have been freshly harvested in the current season and are newly processed for the market.
5. Are dried pistachios available year-round?
Yes. After harvesting, pistachios are dried and processed, making them available throughout the year.
