Early bud break in apple trees worries Kashmir orchardists

Srinagar, Mar 4: Above normal temperatures during February and a noticeable deficit in precipitation have triggered early bud break in apple orchards across parts of Kashmir, prompting concern among orchardists about possible implications for this year’s apple production.
Farmers from several apple-growing belts said the early bud activity has appeared weeks ahead of the usual schedule. They fear that premature budding could expose the crop to weather fluctuations during the crucial flowering period.
Orchardists said apple trees require sufficient chilling hours during winter to maintain dormancy and ensure proper flowering and fruit setting. Warmer conditions during the winter months have shortened the chilling period, leading to an early break in dormancy.
“This year we observed buds appearing much earlier than expected. If temperatures drop suddenly or frost occurs, the tender buds may get damaged which could affect the overall yield,” said an orchardist from Shopian district.
Another grower from Pulwama said the lack of adequate snowfall and rainfall during winter has added to the worries of farmers. “Snowfall acts as a natural protection for orchards and helps maintain the chilling requirement of apple trees. This winter was relatively dry and warmer which has disturbed the natural cycle,” he said.
Farmers said the coming weeks will be crucial for the crop as weather stability during the flowering stage will determine the extent of any potential damage. “If the weather remains stable, the crop may recover. But sudden cold spells or frost could prove harmful for the early buds,” an orchardist from Kulgam said.
Horticulture experts have also advised orchardists to closely monitor orchard conditions and follow proper management practices to reduce potential losses. They said the impact of early budding on the final yield will largely depend on the weather pattern during the next few weeks. [KNT]