Mahinder Patyal
Bharmour – In response to rising concerns over premature leaf shedding in apple orchards, a specialized team from Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Saru, accompanied by horticulture officials, conducted a detailed inspection across tribal regions of Bharmour. Scientists Dr. Jaya Chaudhary and Dr. Sushil Dhiman, along with subject expert Dr. Manohar Lal from the Horticulture Department, visited villages including Holi, Deol, Nayagra, Shivnagari, and Kulait.
The joint team investigated symptoms of early leaf fall suspected to be caused by Marssonina Leaf Blotch. During the visit, they observed visible infections in several orchards and interacted directly with local farmers to discuss disease management strategies.
Dr. Manohar Lal expressed concern that the current weather conditions could further intensify the risk of Alternaria infection, which could severely impact apple growth and reduce yields. He advised farmers to strictly follow the departmental spray schedule to control fungal spread and prevent long-term damage to trees and fruit size.
The team emphasized that untreated orchards may suffer in the next cropping cycle, and encouraged orchardists to act swiftly. Farmers welcomed the experts’ hands-on guidance and expressed gratitude for their field support.
This proactive outreach highlights the role of agricultural science in safeguarding crop health in high-altitude tribal belts, where changing weather patterns pose unique challenges.
