Indian grape growers from Maharashtra, the country's primary grape-producing state, are navigating difficult weather conditions as they prepare for the next export season, says Sunil Shinde, Managing Director at Grape Master Farmer Producer Company based in Nashik.
"From early May to the end of June, which coincides with the backward or foundation pruning period, Nashik and adjoining regions saw continuous rainfall, disturbing critical fruit bud formation and photosynthesis processes," Shinde explains. "This has led to roughly 25-30% leaf damage due to diseases like downy mildew and anthracnose. The waterlogged conditions also delayed necessary spray treatments, as tractor access was limited," he adds.
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According to Shinde, Nashik region in Maharashtra accounts for about 70% of India's grape production: "The Nashik area, including Niphad, Pimpalgaon, Dindori, and surrounding zones, forms the heart of the export crop." He notes, "The weather challenges are mostly localized here; other grape-growing regions within Maharashtra such as Ahmednagar, Pune, Sangli, and Solapur have experienced differing conditions."
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Despite these setbacks, growers remain cautiously optimistic. "July's weather has shown some improvement, allowing farmers to resume disease management and fertilizer application, essential after nutrient leaching caused by heavy rains," Shinde says. He emphasizes that effective forward pruning, scheduled mainly between September and October, will be decisive for the upcoming harvest expected early next year.
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"While a 25-30% reduction in exportable yield appears possible, growers like us will be able to maintain quality if favorable conditions persist in the coming months. Even with potentially fewer bunches per vine, growers are focusing on improving fruit quality to meet strict export market standards," he adds.
Grape Master supports over 70,000 farmers with agronomic guidance through their YouTube channel and mobile app, helping to implement best practices in a challenging season. Shinde concludes, "Although the weather has created hurdles, proactive disease, nutrient, and canopy growth management are crucial steps for Indian grape producers to stabilize yields and fulfill export requirements."
For more information:
Sunil Shinde
Grape Master
Tel: +91 98 90 066 731
Email: [email protected]
www.grapesmaster.com
