SKUAST-K issues fresh advisory for farmers amidst rainfall forecast

Pulwama, April 17: As meteorologists anticipate precipitation and rain in the coming days across Jammu and Kashmir, the Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology Kashmir (SKUAST-K) has issued a comprehensive advisory urging farmers to take proactive measures to safeguard their crops and livestock.
In the latest advisory from the Directorate of Extension at SKUAST-K, farmers are encouraged to prioritize proper drainage maintenance in nurseries and orchards to mitigate the risk of waterlogging, which can be particularly harmful to fruit trees.
The experts recommended the introduction of bee hives at a rate of 3-4 hives per hectare to enhance pollination, especially as weather conditions improve.
For orchards at the pink bud stage, farmers have been advised to apply specified fungicides per 100 litres of water once weather conditions improve.
At this stage application of boron at a rate of 1-1.5g per litre, three days after fungicidal spray has also been suggested.
At the full bloom stage, farmers are instructed to apply specified fungicides at a rate of 300 grams per 100 litres of water as soon as weather conditions permit. The recommended contact fungicides include Mancozeb, Propineb, Captan, Zineb, and Metiram.
In addition to fruit orchards, the advisory extends to vegetable crops, emphasizing the importance of maintaining proper drainage in fields to prevent waterlogging, which can adversely affect crop health. Farmers are encouraged to resume transplanting activities once weather conditions improve.
Furthermore, the advisory highlights the significance of maintaining proper drainage in standing rabi crops such as brown sarson and oats to prevent waterlogging and preserve crop yields.
In light of livestock management, farmers are cautioned against sending their livestock (sheep, goat, cattle) to highland pastures due to the elevated risk of hypothermia and mortality.
Farmers are advised to recall animals already in highland pastures or provide them with appropriate shelter and adequate nutrition.
Bakerwals and Pastoralists are urged to avoid migrating animals until weather conditions improve to ensure the safety and well-being of their livestock.