Scientists of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST) have introduced new, high-density plant varieties of pear. It is expected these will revolutionise the horticulture sector. The new varieties are also expected to benefit the growers in Kashmir by boosting the growth of pears.
The high-density plants have a good capacity to give large quantities of fruit within a short period of time compared to traditional plants. Scientists are monitoring experimental fields where they have planted a good number of high-density pear trees.
Dr Khalid Mushtaq, Head Division of Fruit Sciences SKUAST told: “Usually the person who sows pear plants cannot enjoy its fruits. It is enjoyed by his future generations. The new high density plant variety can bear fruit faster in 2-3 years. In Kashmir, we have 50,000-60,000 hectares of area. We had experimented on apples and on similar lines, we have done another experiment on pears in 50,000-60,000 hectares of area. We have grown exotic varieties of pear as part of our experiment.”
The university is in its fourth year of the experiment it able to produce around 25 tonnes per hectare. In the next couple of years, some 45-50 tonnes per hectare will be produced.
