Can apples grow in the heat? Southern India puts it to the test

In southern India, where temperatures often reach 43°C, growing apples is far from typical. Yet in recent years, small-scale efforts have begun to challenge that norm. A few farms in regions like Maharashtra have started experimenting with apple cultivation, using saplings adapted to warmer climates. While the trees have managed to survive and even produce fruit, the results remain inconsistent — yields are low, and the apples often lack the sweetness required for commercial markets.

India’s appetite for apples has been growing steadily, but local farms are struggling to keep pace. While domestic production has seen some improvement in recent years, it hasn’t been enough to meet rising demand. As a result, the country is relying more on imports to fill the gap. Most apples grown within India still come from traditional northern regions, but those areas are facing mounting challenges — from aging orchards to shifting weather patterns — which are affecting overall productivity.

To address these issues, researchers are exploring “low-chill” apple varieties — types that require fewer hours of cold temperatures to fruit. Trials in subtropical regions like eastern India have yielded limited success. Some saplings have produced small amounts of edible fruit, but challenges such as poor soil quality, high heat, and pest damage persist. Results so far suggest that the process of adaptation may take several more years.

Skepticism remains about the commercial potential of apples grown in non-traditional regions. Fruit from these areas often has a shorter shelf life and milder taste, making them less competitive in the market. In northern growing regions, weather instability has led to financial losses for many farmers, prompting some to shift orchards to higher elevations or experiment with faster-ripening varieties.

Efforts are underway to develop climate-resilient apple strains that can adapt to changing conditions while maintaining quality. These include apples that ripen earlier, helping avoid damage from erratic weather and improving color development in less favorable climates. However, long-term solutions will also require widespread orchard renewal, improved infrastructure, and better use of surplus produce for processing to ensure the sustainability of apple production across the country.

source: bbc.com

photo: prevention.com