Indian scientists search for the perfect apple
Summary
Indian farmers and researchers are experimenting with growing apples in warmer parts of India, like Maharashtra, to meet rising demand. These efforts focus on using low-chill apple varieties that need fewer cold hours to grow, though success has been limited due to the warmer climate and soil conditions.Key Facts
- Jammu and Kashmir is India's largest apple-growing region.
- A farmer in Maharashtra, Kakasaheb Sawant, planted apple trees in a subtropical area where temperatures can reach 43°C.
- Most of Sawant's apple trees survived, and the farm has attracted visitors, but the apples are not sweet enough to sell.
- India’s apple production grew by 15% over the last five years but is still not enough to meet demand, leading to increased imports.
- The best apple-growing regions have long winters with temperatures between 0°C and 6°C.
- Scientists are exploring low-chill apple varieties that need about 400 hours of cooler temperatures.
- In Ranchi, eastern India, researchers are testing low-chill apple varieties with limited success.
- These experimental apple varieties face challenges like poor climate and soil conditions and termite attacks.
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