While conventional cherry varieties have not yet fully entered the market, early-ripening imported cultivars are already generating returns for growers in districts including Pulwama and Shopian.

According to growers, imported cherries are currently selling for between US$2.3/kg and US$3.5/kg in local markets.

Asif Ahmad, a grower from Pulwama, said lower production this season has been offset by firmer market prices.

“This season, the crop is much less compared to normal years, but the prices are quite encouraging,” Ahmad said. “Both imported and traditional Siyah varieties are fetching good rates in the market. If prices continue to remain stable, growers may be able to recover some of the losses caused by the lower production.”

He added that imported cultivars are helping growers reduce weather-related risks.

“The biggest advantage is that these cherries are more resistant to light rainfall. Traditional cherries can crack very quickly after rain, which affects their quality and market value,” he said.

Irfan Ahmad, a grower from Shopian, said the staggered harvest pattern of imported cultivars is supporting market supply management.

“Traditional varieties usually ripen together within a short period, forcing growers to sell quickly before the fruit perishes,” Irfan Ahmad said. “But the imported varieties mature in phases, which ensures a continuous supply to the market and helps maintain better prices.”

He added that the longer harvesting period has increased labour demand in cherry orchards.

“Earlier, the harvesting season would last only a few weeks, but now the work extends for nearly two months because of these imported varieties. It benefits both orchard owners and workers,” he said.

According to Bashir Ahmad Basheer, president of the Kashmir Valley Fruit Growers and Dealers Union, cherry production this year is around 50 per cent lower than normal due to weather-related factors.

“This year’s cherry output is nearly 50 per cent less than the normal production due to weather-related factors, but the market rates are very good,” Basheer said.

Traditional varieties, including Makhmali, Siyah, Awal Number, Jadi, Holland, Double, Mishry, Splendor, and Steela, are expected to enter the market in the coming weeks.

Official figures show that Jammu and Kashmir produce more than 150,000 tons of cherries annually. More than 2,300 hectares are currently under cherry cultivation, with Shopian, Srinagar, and Ganderbal among the main production districts.

Source: Fresh Plaza