Dry spell delays high density apple picking in Kashmir

Lack of sufficient rainfall slows growth, ripening process, say growers

Jahangeer Ganaie

Srinagar, Aug 09 (KNO): The persistent dry spell has delayed the apple picking process and the insufficient rainfall has slowed the ripening process of the apple in the Valley.

Growers from different areas of Kashmir told the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that high-density apple orchards have been gaining popularity in Kashmir due to their higher yield potential and shorter gestation period.

However, despite having drip irrigation facilities, they too have been affected by the current weather conditions, the growers said, adding that the lack of sufficient rainfall has slowed the growth and ripening process of the apples, pushing the picking season back by weeks.

Farooq Ahmad, a high density apple grower from Shopian said that despite having drip irrigation facilities, high density apples have also got affected by the current weather as the rains are pivotal for growth of any plant.

He said that some growers have quality fruit but there are some who have fruit that is smaller in size and less shiny.

“The dry spell has indeed made things difficult, but we are adapting as best as we can,” said Abdul Rahim, a high-density apple grower in Pulwama district.

“We are hopeful that the weather will improve soon, allowing us to pick the apples at the right time and get good returns.”

While the persistent dry spell presents significant challenges, the hope for good returns keeps the growers optimistic.

Growers said that they are hopeful that there will be good demand for high density apples like the last few years.

Bashir Ahmad Basheer, Chairman of the Kashmir Valley Fruit Growers Cum Dealers Union told KNO that persistent dry spell has delayed the apple picking as apple takes time in dry weather to get full colour.

He, however, said that as per the current trend, it seems there will be good demand of high density apple and growers will fetch good returns—(KNO)