Kashmiri Apple Farming in India

Kashmir, also known as paradise on earth, is globally famous for its apple production. Around 45 million apple trees are grown in over 70% of Kashmir’s land (1.5 lakh ha) which produces over 2.1 MT apples every year. In addition, Kashmiri apples, directly and indirectly, constitute almost 60% of Kashmir’s income.

The favourable environment of Kashmir makes apple farming a profitable business for the people. The method of Kashmiri apple farming along with soil, climate and irrigation requirements is discussed in this article.

Types of Kashmiri Apples

There are seven different varieties of apples grown in the province of Kashmir.

Red Delicious: Red Delicious is the most popular and widely cultivated apple variety in Kashmir. It is mostly grown in Kulgam, Pulwama, Sopore and Shopian regions. The colour of delicious apples is bright red, the texture is smooth and the shape resembles a heart. Delicious apples are crunchy, juicy and slightly sweet and usually ripen in mid-September.

Kullu Delicious: Kullu Delicious is the second most common apple variety in Kashmir. They are dark red, more tasty and slightly expensive compared to delicious apples.

Kinnaur Apples: Kinnaur is the third largest produced apple in Kashmir. The price of Kinnaur apples is similar to Kullu Delicious.

Also Read- How to Grow Radish in Cold Climates

Hazratbali Apples: Hazratbali apples are medium sized, round to conical, sweet and juicy. They usually ripen in mid-July but their shelf life is short.

Golden Delicious: Golden Delicious Apples are conical shaped, come in small and medium size, and are mostly known for their freshness and longer shelf life. The apples turn golden when they ripen and are crisp, white, juicy and thick. This variety ripens in late October and is available in the market till January.

Maharaji Apples: Maharaji apples are bright red, large size, crispy, juicy fruits. Their taste is a bit acidic and they usually have a green base and conspicuous dots. This variety also ripens in late October.

American Trel: Trel apples are small, round shaped, crispy, sweet and juicy. They ripen in September and are comparatively cheaper.

Kashmiri Apple Farming Method and Requirements

Kashmiri apple farming is highly advantageous because of the favourable soil, climate and environment. Apples are grown only at a higher elevation as they require low temperatures for proper growth.

Kashmir is the most suitable location to grow apples as the temperature drops to a very low level in the state. While Kashmir is the perfect place for apple farming, it still requires certain conditions for a successful production. The most important requirements to successfully grow apples in Kashmir are detailed below.

Climate Requirements

Apples are temperate trees and they require certain climate conditions to thrive. The average temperature should range between 21-24℃ during the active growth period from April to September. Additionally, Kashmiri apple needs around 600-1500 hours below 7℃ to complete its dormancy cycle.

Soil Requirements

The ideal soil for Kashmiri apple farming should be fertile loam soil rich in organic matter. Loam is a mixture of sand, silt and clay and it provides a perfect balance of drainage, aeration and water retention for apple trees. Loamy soil helps minimise the chances of root and crown rot. More requirements are listed below.

• Soil should be at least 18 inches deep for proper root growth
• The pH of the soil should be 5.8-7.0 or slightly more acidic
• Soil should contain at least 2% organic matter
• The soil should be well drained to avoid root damage

Irrigation Requirements

Trees need around 27-40 inches of annual rainfall to produce the best growth apples. However, rainfall patterns can be unpredictable which might contribute to low soil moisture, which can reduce the number of apples and the size of apples. This is why additional irrigation may be required.

Apple trees usually require irrigation during the most critical period of April to August. During summer, trees can be irrigated every 7-10 days but after the fruit set weekly irrigation is required. December to January is the usual period for irrigating orchards after they have been manured.

Kashmiri Apple Planting Method

Once all requirements are met farmers can start planting Kashmiri apple trees. The distance for planting apple trees varies depending on the variety of apples and the fertility of the soil. Apples can be planted in four main densities which are listed below:

• Low density - less than 250 plants per ha
• Moderate density - 250-500 plants per ha
• High - 500-1250 plants per ha
• Ultra High - more than 1250 plants per ha

Planting Method

The method to plant Kashmiri apples is listed in detail below.

• The best time to plant apple trees is January to February
• 60 cm pits need to be dug two weeks before planting
• Pits are then filled with loamy soil and organic matter
• Plants should be placed in the centre of the pit by scooping the soil and placing the soil ball, keeping the root intact
• Loose soil should be filled up and pressed to remove air gaps
• Seedlings should be watered immediately after planting

Also Read- Cauliflower Farming: Cultivation, Planting & Harvesting

Conclusion

In conclusion, Kashmiri apple farming plays a vital role in the state’s economy. Apple farming in Kashmir is a rewarding but challenging venture. Careful planning, management and knowledge are required to successfully grow apples in Kashmir.