March: Ideal month for planting orchard trees

Chaupal: March is a month considered crucial for the horticulturists because the plantation process starts during this period, as per the Horticulture Development Officer of Chaupal (Himachal Pradesh), Shyam Sharma. He said that farmers need to select the land and location judiciously for the plantation of apple seedlings in the orchard. Therefore, it is necessary to choose a site with nominal frost. The pH of the soil should be between 5.8 and 6.2, and sandy loam soil is ideal for apple cultivation.

It is better to test the soil first to know its suitability before the plantation of apple saplings. There should be proper space between the plants so that trees could get sunlight, air circulation, and space; in these situations, the growth would be perfect. After planting, press the soil gently around the plant to secure the roots firmly.

Also Read: Odisha CM inaugurates annual flower show

To keep the plants free from pests and diseases, mix chlorpyrifos 20 EC or neem oil solution (10 liters per pit) into the soil while filling the pits. Besides this, use 30 kg of well-decomposed manure and 500 grams of superphosphate in the soil. After plantation, farmers need to remain in touch with experts for getting better results.

Sharma stressed that the farming community needs to purchase plants from reputed nurseries or the Horticulture Department. The graft joint of the plants should be 25-30 cm above the ground. Dig a one-cubic-meter pit one month before the planting of saplings, leaving the soil open for 10-12 days. During this period, sunlight will kill insects and harmful bacteria.

He went on to say that if farmers follow such guidelines mentioned above, then they can surely get healthy growth of the plant and yield bumper production in their respective orchards.