Climate change poses significant risks to the strawberry industry in the Mahabaleshwar region, particularly by disrupting the ideal temperature window required between November and March. Strawberries are highly sensitive to thermal shifts. An increase in nighttime temperatures during this period can prevent the plants from entering the necessary chilling period, which is vital for proper flowering and fruit set.
Rising average temperatures can lead to faster ripening, which reduces the overall size and quality of the berries. Furthermore, erratic rainfall patterns or unexpected heatwaves during these months can cause moisture stress. Such stress often leads to uneven fruit development and increased vulnerability to diseases like powdery mildew, which thrives in fluctuating humidity levels.
For farmers, these shifts mean the traditional growing window is becoming less predictable. This instability can lead to reduced yields and lower market value for the produce. To adapt, growers may need to invest in protective structures like shade nets or advanced irrigation systems to stabilize the microclimate around the crops and mitigate the impact of rising temperatures and irregular weather events.
