In Himchal Pradesh, Chilling Hours Apples Need Fall From 1,200 To 800 In Past Three Decades

[hatrack]

CHANDIGARH: Will the rising temperatures wipe out apples in Kullu-Manali areas of Himachal Pradesh? A study conducted by Palampur-based agriculture university suggests that the world renowned Himachal apple may well be affected.

Over the next 30 years or so, growing apples may not be possible in this traditional belt comprising Kinnaur, Shimla and Kullu districts, scientists claim. The last three decades have seen a steady rise in temperatures - varying between 0.3 to 1.7 degree celsius - and brought down the chilling hours, required for a good crop, from 1200 hours to 800.

Surprisingly, the heat wave has taken a higher toll in upper reaches of the state, they say. “As compared to Sirmaur district, temperature increase in Kullu district has been drastic in the past 25
years,” an expert who conducted the study told TOI. “Increasing population, unplanned development and deforestation are some of the factors to be blamed for the warming.”

With growing season getting longer and chilling hours decrease per annum, growers may have to switch to varieties found in USA and other European countries.

EDIT

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Cities/Global-warming-shrinks-apple-belt/articleshow/4393340.cms

[Mojorabbit]

1. I have two apple trees

here in Orlando. They are still small but are supposed to have really low chilling needs. Hopefully more varieties will be developed.