Scientists, farmers collaborate to combat ‘Yemarzal’ infestation, call for diligent management practices

PAMPORE: The SKUAST-Kashmir team conducted a field visit to assess the situation of Iris weed, locally known as “Yemarzal,” in Saffron fields in Pampore, an area of south Kashmir’s Pulwama district.
During the visit, a team of scientists observed the presence of Iris Weed, locally known as “Yemarzal.” This weed has become a major challenge for Saffron farmers, posing a significant threat due to its detrimental effects on Saffron corms.
The SKUAST-Kashmir team, under the Chairmanship of Dr. Bashir Ahmad Elahi, Head of the Saffron Research Station in Dusoo Pampore, along with Dr. Parmeet Singh, Professor, Directorate of Research, Dr. Fayaz Ahmad A Bashir, Professor at DARS Budgam, Dr. Javaid A Sofi, Professor in the Division of Soil Science, Dr. Altaf Qazi, Associate Professor, Dr. G.H Mir, Associate Professor at ARSSSS, and Dr. Kalay Khan, Assistant Professor in Agriculture Engineering, met with farmers led by Saffron grower head Javaid Ahmad Ganaie to discuss the issue of Iris weed infestation in Saffron fields.
Iris weed (Iris reticulata) poses a significant threat to the Saffron fields, jeopardizing the quality and yield of this precious crop. As saffron cultivation plays a pivotal role in our agricultural economy, it is imperative to address the issue of Iris weed infestation promptly and effectively. Iris is an associated weed of Saffron and exhibits vigorous growth, spreading rapidly in Saffron fields, outcompeting saffron plants for nutrients, water, and sunlight.
Javaid Ahmad Ganaie, head of the Saffron growers, told Kashmir Reader that the SKUAST-Kashmir scientists, led by Dr. Bashir Ahmad Elahi, visited the Saffron fields in Pampore to assess the weed situation. They found that this weed is highly dangerous for our Saffron corms as it depletes the nutrients and fertility of the Saffron land, posing a significant threat to the crop.
Javaid emphasized that this weed is a serious issue for Saffron farmers, especially considering the rapid proliferation of its seeds. He expressed gratitude towards the Vice Chancellor of SKUAST-Kashmir, the Director of Research, and the Director of Extension for sending teams to conduct on-spot investigations in the Saffron fields of Pampore under the guidance of Dr. Bashir Ahmad Ellahi. After a thorough investigation, they will work on finding solutions to effectively tackle this problem, he said.
Speaking to Kashmir Reader, Senior Scientist Bashir Ahmad Ellahi revealed that the biggest challenge in Saffron fields at the moment is a weed locally known as “Yemarzal” or “Hokar.” He emphasized that this weed has become a significant issue in Saffron fields. In response, a team was formed by Vice Chancellor SKUAST-Kashmir Prof Nazir Ahmad Ganaie, and the Director of Research provided guidance. Ellahi suggested issuing an advisory after consulting with farmers on how to tackle this issue effectively.
He, along with other members of the SKUAST-Kashmir team, visited different saffron fields, including Patalbagh, Samboora, Dusoo, Konibal, and other areas. They observed firsthand the significant presence of the weed in Saffron fields. Their on-spot recommendation is to first defoliate the weed to prevent its seeds from falling into the Saffron fields. Secondly, they suggest uprooting the weeds, particularly focusing on removing the bulbs. Farmers are advised to use available equipment at home to facilitate the uprooting process.
“When we visited Saffron fields in Patalbagh, Samboora, Dusoo, and Konibal areas and spoke with growers, they highlighted that this weed poses a significant challenge because its roots are situated exactly where our Saffron corms are located. Therefore, controlling it requires a meticulous approach to ensure the preservation of our Saffron corms while effectively managing this weed. Our recommendation will focus on keeping our Saffron fields free from this weed to safeguard our production,” Ellahi said.
“Our appeal to farmers is to eradicate this weed from Saffron fields by cutting off its flowers before they produce seeds. These seeds spread and propagate further into Saffron fields, posing a threat to our Saffron corms. Additionally, it’s crucial to uproot both the flowers and the bulbs of this weed from the Saffron fields to ensure the productivity and effectiveness of our Saffron corms,” he added.
The scientist said SKUAST-Kashmir will develop an advanced solution through its agriculture wing to simplify the task for farmers. They aim to effectively remove the weed from Saffron fields without causing any damage to the Saffron corms.
“Additionally, they plan to apply a weedicide known as glyphosate through spot application on these weeds. It’s essential to ensure that the weedicide does not come into contact with the Saffron plants to prevent any damage to the corms,” he said.
Ellahi said that the advisory provided by their team will be disseminated to farmers in the coming days. “If farmers follow these guidelines diligently, they can keep their Saffron fields free from this weed, provided they also invest their efforts and commitment into the process. This involves uprooting, defoliation, and chemical weed management if necessary. By following these steps, effective control of this weed can be achieved,” he said.

BILAL HABIB