Kashmir’s fruit farmers race against time
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By Abid Bashir
- Comments 0
- 06 Apr 2026
Continuous downpour threatens strawberry, cherry crops Growers fear losses, say next 10 days decisive
Srinagar, Apr 05: Persistent rainfall across Kashmir has begun to dampen expectations of a strong start to the Valley’s spring fruit season, with strawberry and cherry growers fearing potential losses at a critical stage of crop development.
Just days ago, orchards and fields across parts of north and south Kashmir were witnessing an abundant and healthy bloom, raising hopes for a high-yield season. However, the ongoing wet spell has now emerged as a cause of concern, with experts and farmers alike warning that the coming days will be decisive.
Chairman of the Kashmir Valley Fruit Growers Association, Bashir Ahmad Basheer, said that while the initial signs were highly encouraging, the prevailing weather could undo much of that progress if it persists. “This year’s bloom was excellent—uniform and widespread across most fruit belts. But continuous rainfall at this stage disrupts pollination and fruit setting. The next 10 days are absolutely crucial for the crop,” he said.
Strawberries, among the earliest fruits to reach the market, are particularly vulnerable at the flowering stage. In Shopian, farmer Abdul Rashid Mir said the crop had raised high expectations among growers. “We were looking at a very good season. The plants are strong, and flowering was heavy. But excessive rain now can damage flowers and reduce fruit formation. We are concerned,” he said.
In neighbouring Pulwama, Ghulam Nabi Bhat pointed to emerging issues of excess soil moisture. “Strawberry fields cannot tolerate waterlogging. If the rain continues, it will affect both the roots and the eventual fruit quality. We urgently need sunshine,” he added.
Another grower from Kulgam, Mohammad Yousuf Dar, said the uncertainty is taking a toll on farmers who have already made significant investments this season. “We have spent heavily on inputs and labour, expecting good returns this year. If the rains do not stop soon, all that effort may go in vain,” he said.
From Gashu-Khimber area of Hazratbal, farmer Imtiyaz Khan said the weather has heightened anxiety among small growers. “We depend on this crop for our livelihood. Too much rain at this stage can ruin everything. We are hoping for clear weather in the coming days,” she said.
Cherry orchards, too, are at a sensitive stage, with blossoms requiring stable weather for successful pollination. In Ganderbal, grower Irfan Ahmad Dar said the situation remains uncertain. “The blossom this year was very encouraging. But rain at this time means fewer bees and poor pollination. Even a few days like this can significantly impact the final yield,” he said.
Experts from Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) have also cautioned growers about the risks associated with prolonged wet conditions. A horticulture scientist said that reduced insect activity and increased humidity could lead to multiple challenges. “Continuous rain limits pollinator movement, which directly affects fruit setting. At the same time, high moisture levels create ideal conditions for fungal diseases. Farmers should remain vigilant and follow recommended protective measures,” he advised.
While the situation remains tense, growers are still holding on to hope that a break in the weather could stabilise conditions and safeguard the crop. For now, Kashmir’s fruit farmers find themselves in a race against time—hoping clearer skies will return before the season’s early promise is washed away.
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