Kashmir Orchardists Turn To Unapproved Growth Regulators

Orchardists across Kashmir are increasingly turning to plant growth regulators (PGRs) in hopes of improving fruit set in their apple orchards—despite these chemicals lacking official approval or scientific backing from either the Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST-K) or the Department of Horticulture.

- Agencies

As spring arrives in the valley, farmers are investing crores of rupees into spraying growth regulators across thousands of acres of fruit orchards. Many believe these synthetic hormones help in better fruit formation and higher yields. Yet, amid the rush, voices of caution persist among both seasoned growers and horticultural scientists.

“There are more than two brands of growth regulators currently available in the local market,” a senior SKUAST scientist said. “But none of them have been officially recommended for use by SKUAST or the horticulture department.”