Early blooming this season worries Himachal apple orchardists

Tribune News Service

Shimla, April 1

Apple orchards are blooming by at least a week or two earlier this season, thanks to the higher than normal temperature and scarce rain and snow this winter. The other consequences of these abnormal weather conditions are inconsistent flowering and weak flower.

“The Regional Horticulture Research Station, Mashobra, normally sees flowering from April 15 to 25. But this time it has happened at least two weeks early,” said SP Bhardwaj, a former joint director with the University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni. “It’s happening because of the stress plants have been under this winter. The temperature has been inconsistent with sharp fluctuations. Besides, rain and snow have been scanty, resulting in inadequate moisture,” he said.

Incidentally, early and erratic flowering is happening across all altitudes, from around 5,000 ft to above 8,000 ft. “There is uneven flowering in orchards because of insufficient moisture. We haven’t had the required chilling hours this time. Besides, the flowers in trees which had good crop last year is weak and small,” said Pratap Chauhan, an orchardists from Kotkhai.

The uneven flowering could lead to poor setting of fruits, with commercial varieties and pollinators flowering at different times.

“The main varieties and pollinators need to flower at the same time for good fruit setting. The orchards with good moisture will tide over the challenge, but those with depleted moisture could face problems,” said Bhardwaj.

He feels recent rains have been a blessing for orchards. “The rains have been a huge respite, especially to the areas with depleted moisture. The moisture will help plants a lot in nutrient intake,” he said.

While inconsistent flowering and the formation of weak flower is a cause of concern, Lokinder Bisht, president of the Progressive Growers Association, feels the year will see a good harvest despite these two concerns. “Last year was an off year with less than normal crop. So this year we can expect a good crop,” he said.