Shimla, Jan 27,
In the hill states like Himachal Pradesh, snow, often affectionately called “white manure,” plays a vital role in apple farming. It’s not just a seasonal occurrence, but a crucial component for ensuring a successful harvest. Snow provides the chilling hours required by apple trees to bloom and set fruit, and it replenishes water in rivers, canals, and streams, which serve as a key irrigation source for farmers. For newly planted apple saplings, snow acts as a natural moisture retainer, promoting healthy growth and development.
However, this winter has brought significant challenges for orchardists, with around a 78 percent deficit, insufficient snowfall may affect apple production. Without adequate snow, reportedly farmers are struggling to maintain necessary soil moisture levels. In response, many apple growers have resorted to carrying snow to their orchards using “kilta” baskets on their backs. This labour-intensive practice, though demanding, has proven effective in hydrating the soil and controlling pests. The application of snow helps eliminate harmful fungi, pathogens, and germs that could damage crops.
Also read: Unseasonal warmth in Himachal Pradesh sets January temperature records
Snow is also crucial for improving soil health. When spread over young apple saplings, the snow slowly melts, releasing water in a steady manner. This process not only ensures that young plants receive the minimum water needed during the harsh winter months, but it also helps make essential minerals in the soil more soluble and accessible to the plant roots. For farmers, snow is a lifeline, particularly when other irrigation resources are scarce.
Yet, with this winter’s insufficient snowfall, some farmers have taken extreme measures, including transporting snow and ice in trucks to their orchards. These efforts, while costly and time-consuming, highlight the critical role snow plays in apple farming. The apple industry is a cornerstone of the hill economy, but the rising costs of fertilizers, labor, and alternative irrigation methods are making it harder for farmers to maintain their livelihoods.
As the search for “white manure” intensifies this winter, the need for adequate snowfall becomes ever more pressing. If February brings no relief, the survival of young apple saplings and the future of many orchards may be at risk. Despite these hurdles, the resilience of Himachal Pradesh’s orchardists remains unwavering as they continue to fight for the survival of their crops and the apple economy.
