SKUAST scientists grow tulips in winter, four months before natural season in Kashmir

Srinagar: Scientists at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST) have successfully grown tulips in December, nearly three to four months ahead of their natural flowering season.

The achievement was made at the university’s experimental garden, where researchers used controlled, artificial temperature conditions to induce early blooming. The newly developed technology enables year-round tulip production, allowing growers to cater to peak demand during festive occasions and winter celebrations.

Alongside the innovation, the university has initiated a bulb production programme aimed at reducing dependence on imports. The move is expected to empower local farmers to adopt the technology for winter cut-flower production, a period when market demand remains consistently high.

With tulips retailing at Rs 100–150 per stem, the development is poised to give a strong push to Kashmir’s floral tourism sector. It is also expected to create profitable opportunities for growers and further cement the region’s standing as one of India’s leading tulip suppliers.