Rabi crops, especially during December and January, face the risk of frost, significantly impacting their growth and yield. Northern India is currently witnessing frost conditions that are affecting crops like wheat, mustard, and various vegetables, including nurseries. Proper management and timely interventions can help mitigate these effects and improve production.
To protect crops from frost, agricultural scientists frequently provide recommendations. Farmers are advised to spray 350-400 ml of sulfur or sulfur-based solutions mixed with 450 liters of water per hectare on days when frost is likely. Additionally, spraying 5-6 ml of Nano Urea per liter of water, combined with the sulfur solution, can effectively shield crops from frost damage.
Farmers must ensure that the spray is evenly distributed over the plants. This treatment provides protection for 15-20 days. If frost or cold waves persist after 15 days, reapplication of sulfur or sulfur-based solutions at bi-weekly intervals is recommended. For late-sown wheat varieties, farmers can mix 20 grams of 90% sulfur WDG powder with granular urea during the first irrigation. Additionally, zinc (30% powder) at 5 grams per katha can be mixed with urea and applied after irrigation to one acre of farmland.
Using Drone Technology for Crop Protection: Farmers using drones for spraying Nano Urea, sulfur, or zinc should limit the water quantity to 10 liters. To further protect crops, barriers or supports should be installed along field boundaries and in between rows to reduce frost impact by limiting airflow.
Impact of Frost and Cold Waves on Rabi Crops: Frost and cold waves can severely affect Rabi crops. When the temperature drops below 6-7 degrees Celsius, and conditions such as clear skies, wind stillness post-afternoon, and a drop in surface temperature below freezing point prevail, the likelihood of frost increases, especially during the late-night hours. Unlike frost, cold waves accompanied by continuous winds do not cause significant harm to crops.
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