ABSTRACT
Mechanization in its general meaning is based on the concept of using the maximum capacity of available technologies for higher productivity in agriculture processes (Almasi et al., 2001). Mechanization of cultural practices in the date palm industry is an emerging issue in recent years. In fact, high costs, work intensity, high operation time, and shortage of skilled and willing workers have increased the need for development of mechanized methods for the production of dates (Albozahar, 2004). One season of the date production process includes a chain of operations, each with its own important role in product quality and quantity (BenSalah, 2000). However, the importance of some of these operations becomes a determining factor in maintaining good yield and product quality. Pollination is one such important operation in date production and has speciŸc characteristics and needs that make it the frontier of mechanization of date production. Date growers look at this operation as the investment phase of production, which must be done accurately to ensure good economic return (Mostaan, 2006).
