India, March 5 -- Above normal temperatures during February and a noticeable deficit in precipitation have triggered early bud break in apple orchards across parts of Kashmir, prompting concern among orchardists about possible implications for this year's apple production.

Farmers from several apple-growing belts said the early bud activity has appeared weeks ahead of the usual schedule. They fear that premature budding could expose the crop to weather fluctuations during the crucial flowering period.

Orchardists said apple trees require sufficient chilling hours during winter to maintain dormancy and ensure proper flowering and fruit setting. Warmer conditions during the winter months have shortened the chilling period, leading to an e...