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| Blueberry farming in Kashmir |
Blueberry farming in cold climates requires specific conditions, including a need for chilling hours to break dormancy, acidic and well-draining soil, and protection from harsh frosts. Key practices involve selecting the right low-chill varieties if needed, amending the soil to ensure proper pH and drainage, and using protective structures like tunnels to mitigate extreme temperatures and ensure successful pollination and fruiting.
Temperature : Avoid frost, as it can kill buds, but ensure the climate provides adequate chilling hours for the chosen variety.
Soil : Ideal soil is acidic ( pHp cap H 4.2–5.5), rich in organic matter, and well-draining. Heavy clay should be avoided as it can lead to root rot. Amendments like cocopeat and compost can improve soil structure and moisture retention.
Planting and variety selection
Variety choice:
Select a variety that matches your climate's chilling hours. Low-chill varieties are available for regions with fewer cold hours.
Propagation:
Blueberry plants are commercially propagated from cuttings (hardwood, semi-hardwood, and softwood).
Farm management
Sunlight:
Plants need at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily to produce sweeter fruit.
Watering : Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, as the shallow roots are sensitive to both drought and poor drainage.
Pruning : Prune mature plants in late winter to balance old, medium, and new wood. Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Young plants generally don't require pruning for the first few years.
Protection: Use protective structures like tunnels, especially in warmer or variable climates, to regulate temperature, protect against frost, and aid in pollination.
Pest and disease control: Use methods like neem oil sprays and physical barriers to deter pests like birds and fruit flies.
Harvesting and post-harvest
Harvesting: Pick berries by hand when they are fully blue and have a dusty bloom.
Cooling: Cool the harvested berries quickly to maintain their quality and shelf life.
Harvesting: Pick berries by hand when they are fully blue and have a dusty bloom.
Cooling: Cool the harvested berries quickly to maintain their quality and shelf life.
Availability : Planting materials (both cool & hot climate)
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