New Hopes in Drying Orchards: Farmers Turn to Imported Feather Apple Plants from Belgium and Italy
Apple farming in Himachal has always been a way of life, but changing weather has made it harder for orchardists to rely on traditional varieties. Seasons are shifting, rains are uncertain, and farmers are searching for crops that can survive—and thrive—under these new conditions.
For the first time, apple growers are welcoming feather apple plants imported from Belgium and Italy. These modern saplings, already sprouting multiple branches before planting, promise quicker harvests, better prices, and resilience even in lower-altitude valleys.
Farmers Betting on Early Varieties
- Gala Big Bucks (Flesh Gala) from Belgium
- Shanniko Red Gala and Mema Gala 16,316 from Italy
These varieties ripen early, reaching markets by May, when demand is high and prices soar to ₹200–₹300 per kilo. Sweet in taste and quick to mature, they offer farmers a chance to earn more in less time.
Excitement in the Valleys
Fruit Growers’ Association, says bookings are already pouring in. More than 400 farmers have paid advances, eager to plant these new varieties. “There’s real excitement,” he explains. “Farmers see this as a chance to adapt and secure their future.”
Why Feather Plants Matter
Unlike traditional apple saplings that take 3–6 years to bear fruit, feather plants start producing within 14–16 months. Their multiple branches allow faster growth and earlier yields, making them a lifeline for farmers facing unpredictable weather.
A Reliable Option in Uncertain Times
With guaranteed disease-free plants and direct imports from trusted nurseries abroad, orchardists feel reassured. For many, these feather plants represent not just a crop, but hope—hope that their orchards will flourish again despite the challenges of climate change.
