On Monday, biodegradable mulch was used to cover fruit from mango trees in orchards near Chittal. |Picture source: Special Handout
The Chittal District Government has stepped up efforts to help mango farmers as the heavily delayed blossoms are rapidly with stunted fruit sets appearing in 1.7 million acres of orchards in the region this year.
D. Madhusudhan Reddy Deputy Director (Horticulture) said that to prevent further damage to the mango crop, with the help of experts, officials at the Mandal level will hold a series of consciousness camps in the villages to sensitize farmers to the withered water that urgently needs to provide water to trees to prevent flowers from withering.
“By doing so, flowers and fruit can be preserved to some extent. This process will also help the mangoes withstand heavy winds in the next two months,” the official said.
Mr Reddy added that another important measure by the regional government to protect crops is to provide mango farmers with a “biodegradable cover” to protect fruit on the trees.
These mulches will help crops maintain extreme heat during the subsequent summer and prevent fruit discoloration and black spots. Most importantly, it will keep the fruit safe in the strong winds. ” he said.
The official said each farmer can provide up to 10,000 covers. “While the cost per cover is Rs 2, we will provide it to farmers at a price of Rs 1 per piece,” he said. He also urged farmers to inform them of the field level of horticulture officials if they need technical assistance in their own field.
Mr Reddy noted that Hungar, Paramanna and Kupam areas are expected to bring good news for farmers compared to other areas of the undivided Chittal district, as the current flowering and fruit sets are healthy.
“A very positive trend is that unlike the Guntur and Vijayawada areas, the Chittoor area is currently free from any pests or epidemics,” the official said.
publishing – March 10, 2025 at 06:15 pm
