Unseasonal February Heatwave Sparks Wheat Crop Concerns in Punjab and Haryana

Unseasonal February Heatwave Sparks Wheat Crop Concerns in Punjab and Haryana

An unusual and alarming spike in temperatures during February has triggered significant worries for wheat growers across the agricultural heartlands of Punjab and Haryana. The mercury has risen by 3–4°C above the normal seasonal averages, creating conditions that are highly unfavorable for the smooth growth and development of the vital rabi crop.

Temperature Trends and Forecasts

Maximum temperatures have consistently hovered between 25°C and 30°C, already reaching the upper threshold considered ideal for February. Forecasts indicate that these temperatures are expected to climb an additional 2–3°C in the coming days, exacerbating the situation. According to the India Meteorological Department, even minimum temperatures are running 1.5°C to 3°C above normal, compounding concerns over potential stress on the standing wheat crop.

Expert Warnings and Historical Context

Agriculture experts emphasize that special attention must be paid to wheat crop maintenance, as temperature increases during these critical months, when the crop is at the maturity stage, can severely impact yield. A similar situation emerged in 2022, when wheat yields decreased by up to 15% due to comparable heat conditions. Farmers, recalling that challenging period, express deep concern. "That year, we faced a big shortfall in wheat production," said farmer Karnail Singh from Sangat village in Bathinda.

Sensitivity of Wheat to High Temperatures

Makhan Singh Bhullar, director of extension education at Punjab Agricultural University in Ludhiana, explained the crop's vulnerability. "The wheat crop is very sensitive to high temperatures during the grain-setting period. A rise in temperature during this phase decreases the weight of the grains, negatively impacting both yield and quality. This effect is more profound in early wheat sown on light to medium soils, as the crop ripens early and the grains cannot be fully developed."

Farmer Observations and Immediate Measures

Farmers have noted that temperatures this February feel higher than those experienced during the same period last year. Under the prevailing conditions, experts advise implementing specific measures to mitigate the impact of rising temperatures:

• Provide light irrigation to the crop at regular intervals to help cool the plants and soil.
• Closely monitor wind speed during irrigation to prevent lodging, where crops may fall over due to strong winds combined with wet conditions.

Scientific Insights and Protective Strategies

Hari Ram, head of the agronomy department at PAU, highlighted that rising growing degree days hasten crop maturity, shortening the grain-filling period—a development unfavorable for wheat. He recommended a protective spray strategy:

1. Apply a 2% potassium nitrate spray to help shield the crop from high temperatures, particularly at the cabbage leaf stage.
2. The first spray should be administered at the emergence of the cabbage leaf stage, and the second at the time of pollen formation.
3. Spraying should be conducted in the evening, with the quantity of solution kept to 200 litres to ensure effectiveness and avoid waste.

Conclusion: Mitigating Adverse Effects

By combining light irrigation at regular intervals with the recommended potassium nitrate sprays, the adverse effects of high temperatures can be mitigated to some extent. These proactive steps are crucial for helping maintain both the yield and quality of the wheat crop, safeguarding the livelihoods of farmers in Punjab and Haryana during this critical growing season.