The spread of a parasitic disease in cherry trees has left horticulturists worried inHimachal Pradesh, raising concerns of a threat to the states Rs 200-crore, cherry-growing economy.
The infestation of phytoplasma parasites was first observed in cherry trees in June and July this year, but
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farmers were unfamiliar with it and did not worrt at the time. A team of scientists then in September confirmed the presence of phytoplasma parasites, which cause a systemic disease in cherry trees.
It was decided that the entire cherry-growing region, including Thanedar, Baghi and Narkanda, would be mapped in three categories red, yellow and green. Based on severity of infection, red zone will be where more than 80% trees have died, yellow zone will be where more than 60% trees have died, and green zone will be where no infection has been found.