Kashmir’s horticultural industry is set to harvest the fruits of innovation. Kiwi plants, which were introduced by the SKUAST in 1987 on an experimental basis, have now started bearing fruit.
The horticulture department has set up four nurseries in the Baramulla district. Chief Horticulture Officer, Baramulla, Zahoor Ahmad Bhat: “We have orchards in Pattan, Baramulla, Uri, and Nowpora. Moreover, the locals too have established Kiwi orchards.”
The Pattan nursery produces near 300 boxes of kiwis per year. “The nursery has over 100 plants and produces more than 250 boxes of kiwis. It is highly organic fruit. We don’t spray any pesticide or any other chemical. Kiwi plants are disease-free,” said a caretaker of the nursery.
The department has also established Kiwi orchards in Harvan and other places in south Kashmir. Officials said Kiwi cultivation is gaining popularity across the region.
