Date palms are dioecious, the male flowers that produce the pollen, and the female flowers that produce fruit are borne on separate trees. The pollination is done by hand, and the floral bunches tied and trained for direction of growth.

Thinning of the fruit is also done by hand, while the fruit is quite young. To ensure their large size, the Medjool date is thinned once more at a slightly more matured stage; leaving only about 10% of the original fruit for harvest.

In July and August, when the bunches are heavy with fruit, they are tied firmly to a supporting frond, preventing the fruit stalk from breaking under the strain. Wire ring spreaders are then placed in the center of the bunches to aerate, reduce humidity, and take weight off the dates in the center of the bunch.

The final step prior to harvesting is done by slipping a bag over the bunch. The bag, after being tied at both ends, protects the fruit from light rains, bugs, and birds.

The harvesting of the Medjool starts in late August and runs through November. Three to four trips up the palm are required, due to different ripening times of the dates. The fruit is hand picked and placed onto a shallow canvas basket to minimize bruising of this soft date. The fruit is then transferred to protective trays.

The Medjool is the gourmet date and unquestionably the largest, meatiest and most flavorful variety. Yet, they are surprisingly low in calories, only 49 per date.

Imperial Date Garden Medjools are completely safe and natural. They contain absolutely no pesticides or preservatives. Medjools contain no cholesterol, almost no fat or sodium, and are rich in potassium, iron and fiber. Medjools posses energy in the form of invert sugars, which is extremely important for those who cannot tolerate sucrose in their diet.

Dates are delicious when eaten fresh or added to muffins, cookies, and salads. Dip them in chocolate or roll them in coconut for a classic desert. Serve them as Hors d'oeuveres by spreading them with cream cheese or peanut butter. However you serve our tasty Medjool dates to those special people in your life, we know it will be a date to remember!!