SRINAGAR: The ongoing dry spell in Kashmir has delayed the apple-picking season, with insufficient rainfall slowing down the ripening process of apples in the Valley.
However, despite the availability of drip irrigation systems, these orchards have been affected by the current weather conditions. The lack of sufficient rainfall has hindered the growth and ripening of apples, pushing the picking season back by weeks.
Farooq Ahmad, a high-density apple grower from Shopian, noted that even with drip irrigation, the apples have been impacted by the dry weather, as rainfall is crucial for the growth of any plant.
Some growers have managed to produce quality fruit, but others have reported smaller and less shiny apples. “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 achieve good returns.”
While the persistent dry spell presents significant challenges, growers remain optimistic about the demand for high-density apples, similar to recent years..
Bashir Ahmad Basheer, Chairman of the Kashmir Valley Fruit Growers Cum Dealers Union, told KNO that the dry spell has delayed apple picking, as apples require more time in dry weather to achieve full colour. However, he added that based on current trends, there appears to be a strong demand for high-density apples, and growers are likely to receive good returns—(KNO).
