Apple growers expect bumper crop in Shimla

Shimla, Apr 13 (ANI): Apple growers in Himachal Pradesh are expecting a bumper crop this season, as there is full flowering already in Shimla.

"After seeing the flowers, we are hopeful that this year, the crop would be good. Even in nearby gardens, the flowering is good," said Daulat Ram, an apple grower.

According to the horticulture experts, till date the climatic conditions are conducive for a good crop. However, they said that if dry spell continues then it may be disastrous for the crop.

"We are hoping that the crop this year would surpass last year's record. If in the next two to three days, it rains and the weather becomes moist, the crop would be good. But if the weather remains dry, it might be disastrous for the crop," said H R Sharma, Horticulture Sceintist, Himachal Pradesh Horticulture Department.

Sharma, however, suggested farmers to maintain moisture and humidity in the apple plants for good crop.

Almost 100,000 hectares of land in the hilly state, including districts of Shimla, Kullu, Kinnaur, Mandi and Chamba, are under apple production. (ANI)