How to protect crops from frost and cold wave? Know easy and effective methods

The sowing of Rabi crops continues until the final weeks of December. Farmers are advised to monitor their crops for pest infestations and diseases during this period. The Agriculture Department has cautioned that nighttime temperatures are dropping rapidly. In such conditions, where there is little to no wind movement and a noticeable chill in the air, frost formation on crops is likely. Prolonged low temperatures can significantly increase the chances of frost affecting Rabi crops.

Impact of Cold Waves and Frost on Crops:

Cold waves and frost can cause up to 15% damage to crops such as wheat and chickpea. Frost damages crop leaves and flowers, which appear scorched and eventually fall off. This may lead to shriveled grains or seeds, reduced weight, and underdeveloped pods and spikes. Frost is most detrimental during flowering, pod formation, and grain development stages of Rabi crops.

Measures to Protect Crops from Cold Waves and Frost:

1. Light Irrigation at Night: To prevent frost, lightly irrigate the fields using sprinklers at night. Create smoke around the field boundaries by burning organic waste on the edges of the field.
2. Dew Removal: Two people can use a rope to gently shake the crops, causing dew drops to fall to the ground, which helps protect the crops from frost damage.
3. Covering Plants: Cover nursery plants and cash crops with tarpaulins, plastic sheets, or straw to retain soil warmth and increase the ground temperature.
4. Timely Irrigation: When frost is likely, irrigate the field. Moisture in the soil retains warmth for a longer time, providing protection to the crops.
5. Sulfur Spray: Spray a 0.1% sulfur solution on the crops when frost is anticipated. Mix 1 liter of sulfur solution with 1,000 liters of water and use a plastic sprayer to apply it over one hectare of crops.

Read More... Cold wave in Haryana and North India: Farmers concerned over crop damage as temperatures Drop