Hi-tech lab to produce grafted walnut saplings in Kashmir

"A hi-tech house at government fruit plant nursery in Kathua district has been developed to produce grafted walnut saplings," Chief Horticulture Officer of Kathua A K Sharma said.

The saplings will have a significantly reduced gestation period from the existing eight to ten years to just three to four years, Sharma said, adding that more than 600 such saplings have been grafted successfully for the purpose of plantation.

Sharma advised the farmers to keep their orchards free from weeds and over-grown grass after the harvest to keep harmful insects and pests at bay.