Srinagar, March 7 -- Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) has issued an advisory urging farmers across the Valley to adopt immediate crop protection and soil moisture conservation measures in view of the persistent dry weather conditions.

Experts from the university said farmers should prioritise crop management practices to protect crops from heat stress and soil desiccation caused by rising temperatures and lack of precipitation.

For fruit growers, the university has recommended the application of 4-6 inches of organic mulch, such as paddy straw or grass clippings, around tree basins to retain soil moisture. Experts from the Division of Agrometeorology also advised against the use of ...