Apple growers in Himachal Pradesh tackle summer and rainy season diseases

Shimla, June 29

As the rainy season approaches, apple growers in Himachal Pradesh face significant challenges due to erratic climatic conditions, such as extreme heat waves and dry spells. These factors have severely impacted the region’s Rs 5500 crore apple economy, leading to early signs of diseases in apple crops. Experts from Dr. Y.S. Parmar University, Nauni, recommend a comprehensive approach that integrates cultural, biological, and chemical methods to combat these issues.

Effective pest and disease management strategies

HP Govt 2 years

To protect their crops from immediate and anticipated outbreaks, agricultural experts suggest implementing effective pest and disease management strategies. Currently, apple growers are dealing with an outbreak of mites, which cause leaves to turn bronze, reducing the plant’s ability to photosynthesize. To manage this, experts recommend regularly checking for mites and using chemicals like Fenazaquin or Abamectin. Dusting sulfur before blooming can also help prevent mites.

Another challenging pest is the woolly aphid, which forms white, cotton-like masses on branches and roots that weaken the tree. Experts advise introducing natural predators like beetles and using chemicals such as Thiamethoxam or Imidacloprid early on.

NAC Awareness

Growers have also reported infections of Alternaria, a pathogen that causes spots on leaves and leaf curling in early blush. This results in deformed leaves that curl and become distorted, affecting photosynthesis and potentially impacting yield. Management strategies include spraying copper-based fungicides like Copper Oxychloride or Bordeaux mixture before buds break.

Canker is another issue, with symptoms such as lesions on branches causing parts of the tree to die. Management involves pruning and destroying affected branches when trees are dormant and using fungicides like Carbendazim or Thiophanate-methyl during the growing season.

Advertisement

Additional recommendations

Experts also recommend several additional measures to help manage and prevent these issues:
– Maintain orchard hygiene by removing fallen leaves and pruned branches.
– Rotate crops and ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging.
– Use a two-spray system, first with Babistin and Mancozeb, then with Madran for aphid and mite control.
– Introduce ladybugs to control aphids and predatory mites for spider mites, reducing the need for chemical pesticides.
– Regularly water the trees during dry periods and use mulching to keep the soil moist and cool.
– Use shade nets to protect young trees from extreme heat.
– Apply fungicides before the rains to protect against fungal infections.

Impact and urgent need for action

The outbreak of pests and diseases, exacerbated by erratic climatic conditions, threatens to further degrade the quality of the apple crops. Early care and adherence to the university’s advisory can help control the damage. Apple growers from villages like Reog and Dhala in Narkanda and Theog are already witnessing early signs of these issues, such as mites, woolly aphids, leaf curling, and canker. Despite using fungicides like Babistin and Mancozeb and pesticides like Madran, these problems persist. The current season’s apple crop is expected to be below average, highlighting the urgent need for integrated pest management strategies.

By following these guidelines and recommended treatments, farmers can protect their crops and improve yields despite the challenging conditions. Experts from Dr. Y.S. Parmar University, Nauni, emphasize the importance of regular checks and timely actions. Adhering to these expert recommendations could help mitigate the impact of pest and disease outbreaks, ensuring the sustainability of the apple economy in Himachal Pradesh.

Team Himachal Scape

Empower Independent Journalism – Join Us Today!
Dear Reader,
We’re committed to unbiased, in-depth journalism that uncovers truth and gives voice to the unheard. To sustain our mission, we need your help. Your contribution, no matter the size, fuels our research, reporting, and impact.
Stand with us in preserving independent journalism’s integrity and transparency. Support free press, diverse perspectives, and informed democracy.
Click [here] to join and be part of this vital endeavour.
Thank you for valuing independent journalism.
Warmly,
Vishal Sarin, Editor