'Haryana can be a Florida in citrus cultivation'

Hisar, June 17: Haryana's agro-climatic conditions are almost similar to that of the US state of Florida and it has the potential of emerging as the number one citrus fruit producer in the country, according a US agro expert.

''If farmers are awakened and acquainted with citrus fruit cultivation technology, Haryana could be the leading state of India in citrus fruit cultivation, like Florida in the U S,'' said Dr Steve Futch, Multi Country Extension Specialist from Citrus Research and Education Centre, University of Florida, the US.

There was a need to accord priority to educate farmers with citrus fruit cultivation technology in the state, he said while delivering a lecture at the CCS Haryana Agricultural University on citrus cultivation and challenges here.

Dr Steve narrated experiences of Florida and reiterated that the same could be replicated to boost production of citrus in Haryana.

To achieve higher citrus production, Dr. Steve Futch laid emphasis on selection of root stock, weed control propagation of disease free plants, disease and pest management.

The lecture was attended by Heads of different department, scientists, horticulture specialists and researchers working on citrus crop and progressive farmers.

UNI