Apple cultivation

March 6, 2023

Demand for apples from Jammu & Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh has shot up 30% as the earthquake in Turkey has halted shipments of the fruit to India.

About Apple cultivation:

In India apple is primarily cultivated in Jammu & Kashmir; Himachal Pradesh; the hills of Uttar Pradesh and Uttaranchal.
It is also cultivated to a small extent in Arunachal Pradesh; Nagaland; Punjab and Sikkim.
Climatic conditions required
- The apple is a temperate fruit crop.
- However, in India, the apple-growing areas do not fall in the temperate zone but the prevailing temperate climate of the region is due to the Himalayan ranges and high altitudes.
- Temperature: The average summer temperature should be around 21-24 degrees C during the active growth period.
- It can be grown at an altitude of 1500- 2700 m above sea level.
- Rainfall: Well-distributed rainfall of 1000-1250 mm throughout the growing season is most favourable for the optimum growth and fruitfulness of apple trees.
- Soil: Apples grow best on well-drained, loamy soils.