Shimla, Aug. 5 -- Continuous rainfall in the apple-growing regions of Himachal Pradesh has led to a surge in fungal infections across orchards, causing premature yellowing and dropping of leaves, and black spots on apple fruits.
The situation is worsening with relative humidity levels exceeding 80 percent, creating ideal conditions for fungal diseases to spread rapidly.
In several orchards, early fruit drop and the appearance of Alternaria and Leaf Blight have raised concerns among orchardists.
Pawan Sharma, an apple grower from Theog, said, "Apart from the fungal infection, the continuous rain has also affected the size and quality of the apples. The losses may multiply if the rain does not stop soon."
Commission agent Sushil Thakur fr...