Lucknow's mango growers, known for varieties like Dussehri, Langda, Safeda, Chausa, and Ramkela, anticipate a reduced yield this year. Despite initial optimism from abundant flowering, even on typically inactive trees, April and May's strong winds damaged approximately 50% of the blossoms.
Unseasonal rains have exacerbated pest issues, including the notorious mango hopper, with experts citing an imbalance of female to male flowers due to weather conditions as a further complication. Fungus and thrips have also attacked the crops, leading to expectations that only half of the typical harvest will reach markets.
To combat threats like the cutter worm, growers have resorted to protective bagging. "Not only does it save the fruit from the cutter worm but also makes the colour of the fruit better," states orchard owner Mohammad Haleem. However, this method increases costs, as noted by grower Sachin, who confirms the crop bags will be harvested in early June. The bagging not only incurs costs of about $0.02 per bag but also influences market prices, with bagged mangoes potentially fetching $0.36 to $0.42 per kg compared to $0.14 for open-air ripened fruit.
Growers in nearby regions such as Kakori and Mall have faced similar adversities. With markets opening after May 20, early sales indicate raw mangoes at around $0.24 per kg.
Suraj Prasad Yadav notes that if yields remain low, prices could increase. Last season saw Dussehri initially priced at $0.48 per kg, dropping later. Lower yields this year might sustain higher prices.
Source: New Indian Express