Growers in Dharmapuri and Krishnagiri are experiencing delayed flowering of mango trees, raising concerns about potential yield impacts as summer approaches. The typical flowering period occurs in December-January. This delay may extend the ripening phase, necessitating increased irrigation during the summer months. Farmers are advocating for government subsidies to purchase water in the event of a heat wave.
In these regions, the previous two years have posed challenges for mango cultivators. Last year, an intense heat wave affected over 90% of the 47,000 hectares under cultivation. The preceding year witnessed a hopper fly infestation. A Murugesan, a Periyampatti farmer, noted, "Our concerns are not unfounded, farmers who grow mango trees earn profit once a year. This money is again invested in the mango fields. Whatever remains goes to fend for the families. So the late blooming leaves us anxious. The flowering should have started by late December or early January. But this year it is one month late. This means there is an added risk of pest attack and a demand for more water."
R Sibiraj from Karimangalam reported intensified fog over the past week, potentially affecting flowering. KM Soundararajan from Krishnagiri highlighted financial strains, stating, "Adding to their woes, to rescue their trees from a heat wave (temperatures of up to 108 °C), farmers borrowed large sums of money just to water trees which landed many in debt."
Horticulture department officials in Dharmapuri have attributed the delay to the 'Fengal' cyclone, stating, "Delayed flowering is not cause for concern. This is the impact of the 'Fengal' cyclone, as heavy rainfall resulted in excess soil moisture. But with summer starting, moisture is gone and flowering has begun. Production will not be impacted."
Source: The New India Express
