Farmers warned against heatwave to shield fruit, vegetable crops

FAISALABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 6th Jun, 2026) The agriculture experts have advised the farmers to take immediate protective measures for fruit and vegetable crops as an intense heatwave threatens agricultural production across the province, warning that soaring temperatures could cause significant damage to standing crops if precautionary steps are not adopted in time.

A spokesman of Agriculture (Extension) Department said here on Saturday that the farmers cultivating mangoes, citrus fruits, tomatoes, chillies, round gourds and other summer crops have been advised to closely monitor weather forecasts and make timely arrangements to protect their fields from the anticipated spell of extreme heat.

He stressed that the growers should irrigate crops adequately before the onset of severe heat to help plants withstand moisture stress.

However, unnecessary watering should be avoided where soil already contains sufficient moisture, as excessive irrigation could adversely affect crop health.

He also recommended the use of mulching beneath plants to conserve water and prevent excessive increases in soil temperature.

He also advised the farmers to provide shade to young and vulnerable plants wherever possible, including the use of green shade nets or similar protective materials to reduce the harmful effects of direct sunlight.

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He also urged the growers to suspend the transplantation of seedlings during periods of extreme heat and avoid pruning or trimming fruit-bearing plants as such practices could increase plant stress and reduce productivity under high-temperature conditions.

To strengthen crop resilience, the farmers should apply organic matter, compost and farmyard manure by removing three to four inches of soil around plants, laying the organic material and irrigating the area afterward, he added.

He said that this practice improves plant resistance against heat stress and various diseases while enhancing overall plant vigor.

He also advised the farmers to cultivate green manure crops such as Jantar and Dhaincha in rows within vegetable fields wherever feasible. These crops can help moderate field temperatures and lessen the adverse effects of prolonged heat, he added.

He emphasized that timely adoption of these measures would help safeguard crop yields, conserve water resources and minimize economic losses during the expected heatwave.

The farmers should remain vigilant and follow official advisories to protect their orchards and vegetable farms, he added.