Evaluation of Technical Knowledge of Apple Growers about Recommended Apple Production Technology in Different Regions of Kashmir Valley

The study examines the technical knowledge of the apple growers about recommended apple production technology. The study was conducted in three districts of Kashmir division selected purposively, having maximum area under apple cultivation. A multistage sampling procedure was adopted for the study. The study used mixed methods, combining focus group discussions, key informant interviews, and a household survey. From the study it was found, that majority of the apple growers from all the three districts were having medium level of knowledge in almost all the practice such as “preparation of land and planting”, “training and pruning of apple trees “Orchard management”, “nutrient management”, “harvesting and picking”, “packaging and storage”. The study revealed that area under apple fruit has increased, but the productivity has not improved to a satisfactory level. Different methods (trainings, demonstrations, workshops, field-days) need to be employed by the extension officials to update the technical knowledge of apple growers