𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐭𝐬 𝐀𝐝𝐯𝐢𝐬𝐞 𝐓𝐢𝐦𝐞𝐥𝐲 𝐈𝐫𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧, 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐫 𝐇𝐚𝐫𝐯𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠

Pulwama, May 20: Agriculture specialists are urging farmers to ensure timely irrigation for apple orchards and vegetable crops currently in their flowering phase to promote healthy growth and improve yields.

Experts from SKUAST-K (Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology – Kashmir) emphasized that May and June are critical months for maintaining sufficient soil moisture, especially for apple orchards. Trees showing dryness beneath their canopy should be watered to support proper fruit development.

“Soil moisture is essential for nutrient uptake, and its deficiency can affect fruit quality adversely,” the experts explained.

Dr. Tahir Ahmad, Agriculture Extension Officer (AEO) at Beerwah, stressed the need for irrigation of most crops during this time. “Vegetables like potatoes and peas, which are currently flowering, require irrigation now and again during tuber and pod formation stages,” he noted.

Besides irrigation advice, Dr. Tahir also shared guidance on harvesting garlic and onions. He warned farmers against harvesting garlic prematurely despite attractive market prices, stating that early harvest reduces shelf life and quality. Farmers are advised to wait until around 70% of garlic leaves have yellowed before harvesting to ensure proper bulb development.

For onions, Dr. Tahir recommended waiting for a natural maturity sign — the neck breaking spontaneously. “Harvesting onions before this stage can harm their quality and storage potential,” he added.