Department of Horticulture in J&K Issues Guidelines for Farmers in View of Inclement Weather Prediction

In view of the unexpected heavy snowfall across Kashmir, the Horticulture Department has issued an advisory for farmers. 

The Horticulture Department's advisory for orchardists are listed below. 

In view of fresh rain/snow orchardists are advised to adhere to the following practices: 

1. Clear water channels and drains to ensure proper drainage from orchards and nurseries.

2. Shake trees to remove snow from their branches as soon as it falls.

3. Provide support/staking to trees/limbs which are not strong enough to stand without support.

4. Stake freshly planted trees to prevent damage. It takes a couple of years for newly planted trees to anchor firmly in the soil.

5. If the fruit trees tilt, reduce the canopy load by pruning, and provide proper support.

6. If the trees are partially uprooted, slowly pull back the trees to their original position after rigorous trimming and provide sufficient support/staking to the main trunk to prevent future fall.

7. If a scaffold branch breaks and the bark remains intact, bring the branch back to its original place by securing it with a rope and/or bolting or nailing it. Assemble the union and apply Bordeaux Chaubatia paste to the chopped surface. 

8. If the main stem separates into two or three sections, it can be treated the same way as above.

9. If your trees' roots become exposed or unprotected, quickly mulch them to keep them warm in the winter.

10. For protected structures (Greenhouses/polyhouses), carefully remove the snow to avoid damage to the structures.

 However, the department of Horticulture retains that there is no need to panic.  

 "However, there is no need to panic and for further assistance please contact your nearest Horticulture Office or office of Chief Horticulture Officer of the District," says Ajaz Ahmad in an official statement.  

 A Helpline number 0194-2311484has been issued in this regard.