Climate change: Himachal farmers anxious amid early bloom of flowers

Shimla: Early flowering in several fruits and flowers in Himachal Pradesh has increased a lot of concern in the minds of farmers. Orchardists are on the receiving end due to the emergence of unusual phenomena. Uncertainty has arisen among farmers about how to deal with the situation. Several fruits, along with plums, have started flowering almost 15 days earlier than their actual time. Such a condition has taken place for the second consecutive year, creating anxiety among the farming community.

If rain doesn’t take place within a couple of days, then it could severely affect the production of flowers as well as fruits. Besides, if the temperature dips in the next two or three days, then it may damage flowers. However, if the temperature remains normal then crops may not get affected.

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Ravi Chandel, an orchardist from Rohru, stated that the region has received insufficient snowfall and rainfall this year. The recent spell of rain and snow over the past few days is not enough to compensate for the three-month-long dry spell. As a result, soil moisture levels are inadequate, further worrying farmers. The unexpected early flowering of stone fruits has added to their concerns.

Dr. Usha Sharma, head of the Krishi Vigyan Kendra (Agriculture Science Center) in Shimla, confirmed that early flowering has been observed in stone fruit trees in some areas. Normally, flowering begins in the first week of March. She advised farmers to ensure that the soil does not dry out and to water the plants regularly to prevent damage to crops.

The forthcoming weeks is crucial for the farmers it they get more rainfall and snowfall then the chances of ruining crops will be decreased then they can expect good harvest.