Insufficient chilling creates challenges for Himachal apple growers

Shimla: Challenges always surround the apple farmers’ in Himachal Pradesh. Currently, insufficient chilling hours have created several difficulties for them. Chilling is significant for an apple harvest. Climate change and unpredictable snowfall have added worries for apple growers because production has been declining for the last three years.  Below 7,000 feet, only 500 to 700 chilling hours have been recorded so far. The area is known for bumper apple production.

However, areas above 7,000 feet experienced 800 to 900 chilling hours. Meanwhile, a sudden increase in temperature reduced chilling hours. On average, apple trees need 700 to 1,600 chilling hours. Snowfall chills the environment fast, but low temperatures on a regular basis can be dangerous for the crops.

Also Read: Gopi earns lakhs through marigold cultivation

This year’s crop may also be affected amid insufficient chilling hours and dry soil conditions. Experts have been saying that good rainfall in February will help in soil moisture and favorable conditions for flowering. During the flowering season, clean weather is crucial for a healthy harvest.

“Climate change is affecting apples like other crops. Snowfall patterns have shifted, impacting chilling hours. However, there’s still time for the required hours to be completed. Modern apple varieties need fewer chilling hours, offering some hope,” says Dr. Dinesh Thakur, Assistant Director at the Regional Horticulture Research and Training Centre, Mashobra.

Apple growers have been praying for rain in February so that their production could increase as well. Declining apple production is a big worry for the Himachal farmers.