Concerns Rise Among Apple Growers in Himachal Pradesh Due to Lack of Snow

Apple farmers in Himachal Pradesh are increasingly worried about the impact of a snowless winter on their crops. With December recording minimal rainfall and January starting dry, growers fear that the lack of chill hours will lead to poor flowering and fruit setting. Orchardists emphasize the importance of winter snowfall for pest control and soil moisture, and they are already preparing for potential losses. As weather patterns shift, the uncertainty surrounding apple farming continues to grow, raising concerns about the livelihoods of rural communities in the region. Meteorological data reveals that December was one of the driest months in over a century, leaving farmers hopeful for a change in weather to save the upcoming season.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 2, 2026, 16:06 IST

Impact of Dry Winter on Apple Production

Sunil Chadha
Shimla: The ongoing dry conditions and minimal snowfall this winter have raised significant alarm among apple farmers in Himachal Pradesh, who are worried about the potential repercussions for their fruit yield. With December marking one of the driest months in over a century and January starting with predominantly clear skies, growers are concerned that insufficient chill hours could adversely affect apple production in the upcoming season.

Apple farming in Himachal relies heavily on consistent winter snowfall, which is crucial for ensuring adequate chilling, maintaining soil moisture, and controlling pests. However, this year, many areas in the mid and high hills are devoid of snow, leaving orchards vulnerable and farmers anxious about their crops.

The Need for Cold Conditions

Farmers emphasize that apple trees require extended cold periods to enter dormancy and bloom effectively in spring. Chaman Tanta, an apple grower from Jubbal in the upper Shimla region, expressed his concerns about the current situation.

“Typically, December is when we anticipate regular snowfall. This year, winter seems almost absent. Without sufficient chill hours, flowering will be inconsistent, and fruit setting will be compromised,” Tanta noted, adding that growers are preparing for potential losses if this trend continues.

He also mentioned that the lack of snow has diminished soil moisture, compelling farmers to rely on limited water sources even during the peak winter season.

Increased Pest Risks and Moisture Concerns

Vinay Chauhan, an apple orchardist from Ratnari in Kotkhai, highlighted that the dry winter could result in a rise in pests and diseases. “Snow serves as a natural cleanser for orchards. In its absence, pests thrive, leading farmers to spend more on pesticides, which raises input costs,” he explained.

Chauhan pointed out that while some higher elevations received light snowfall recently, it was “insufficient” to make up for the overall shortfall. “A few centimeters of snow cannot substitute for weeks of consistent winter precipitation,” he added.

Long-Term Weather Changes and Their Effects

Satpal Chauhan, an orchardist from Baghi in Kotkhai, remarked that the shifting weather patterns are becoming a persistent issue. “Every year, winters are becoming shorter and drier. The unpredictability of apple farming is increasing. If snowfall does not improve in January and February, the consequences for the next crop will be dire,” he cautioned.

He also raised concerns about drying springs and water sources, noting that prolonged dryness is impacting not only apple production but also the overall livelihoods of rural communities in the hilly regions.

Meteorological data indicates that Himachal Pradesh experienced 99% less rainfall than usual in December, making it the sixth driest December in the past 124 years. Although the weather department has predicted clear conditions in the coming days, orchardists remain hopeful for substantial snowfall to salvage the upcoming apple season.