Archive · 23 Jul 2026
Kashmir explores blueberries as next horticultural success
Kashmir, known for its apples, is trying to grow blueberries.
Scientists at SKUAST have been testing blueberry plants and found that the berries are big and tasty.
They think blueberries can grow in places where apples can't, like foothills and marshy lands.
This means blueberries can be a new fruit for Kashmir, not to replace apples but to grow alongside them.
Experts are excited about the results and see this as a good opportunity for Kashmir's farmers.
Kashmir is known for its apple cultivation but is now exploring blueberries as a new horticultural opportunity.
SKUAST conducted trials funded by DST, showing promising results in blueberry size and taste.
Blueberries can grow in areas unsuitable for apples, such as foothills and marshy lands.
Experts see blueberries as a complement to apples, not a replacement.
Ashaq Pandit, head of the Pomology department at SKUAST, highlights the potential of blueberries in Kashmir's horticulture.
- Who
- Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Science and Technology (SKUAST) and Department of Science and Technology (DST)
- What
- Experimental blueberry plantation trials
- When
- Recent trials (specific date not mentioned)
- Where
- Kashmir Valley
- Why
- To explore new horticultural opportunities and complement apple cultivation
Blueberries as a complement to apples
Potential competition with apples
Role in Kashmir's horticulture
Blueberries as a complement to apples
Blueberries can complement apples by growing in areas unsuitable for apple cultivation, such as foothills and marshy lands.
Potential competition with apples
Some may argue that blueberries could compete with apples for resources and market attention.
- Institution
- Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Science and Technology (SKUAST)
- Funding
- Department of Science and Technology (DST)
- Project Focus
- Blueberry cultivation trials
- Key Expert
- Ashaq Pandit, Head of Pomology department at SKUAST
- Trial Results
- Phenomenal size and taste of blueberries