Heatwave advisory issued for protection of fruit and vegetables

MULTAN, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Jun, 2026) In view of the prevailing heatwave conditions across the region, agriculture officials have issued an advisory, urging farmers to take precautionary measures to protect orchards and vegetables crops from the adverse effects of extreme temperatures.

According to the advisory issued by the agriculture spokesman, several summer crops, including mangoes, citrus fruits, tomatoes, chillies and round gourds (tinda), are currently under cultivation and are vulnerable to heat stress.

Farmers have been advised to closely monitor weather forecasts and ensure timely irrigation. However, they have been cautioned against over-irrigation where soil moisture is already adequate.

The advisory recommends the use of mulching around plants to conserve water and prevent excessive increases in soil temperature. Growers have also been encouraged to provide shade to young plants wherever possible, using green shade nets or similar materials to minimize heat damage.

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Agricultural experts further advised farmers to avoid transplanting seedlings and carrying out pruning operations in fruit orchards during periods of intense heat, as such practices can increase plant stress.

Farmers were further advised to apply compost or farmyard manure by removing three to four inches of topsoil around plants, spreading the organic material and then irrigating the area. This practice helps improve soil health and strengthens plant resistance.

The advisory also suggests cultivating cover crops such as Jantar or similar vegetation in rows within vegetable fields to reduce the impact of extreme temperatures and create a more favorable microclimate for crop growth.

Agricultural authorities have emphasized that adopting these preventive measures can help minimize crop losses and sustain productivity during the ongoing heatwave.