Scorching Summer Hits Nursery Business Hard, Saplings Wither as Costs Rise and Demand Falls

Nursery owners in Raigad’s Pali region are facing heavy losses as extreme heat damages saplings, increases water costs, and reduces customer demand, leaving the sector dependent on the upcoming monsoon

Pali (Raigad) | 30 April 2026:An intense summer has severely impacted nursery businesses in parts of Raigad district, with rising temperatures and heatwaves causing large-scale damage to delicate saplings and disrupting the entire cycle of plant production.

In areas like Pali, Pedli, and Jambhulpada in Sudhagad taluka, nursery owners are struggling to protect their plants as prolonged exposure to harsh sunlight leads to drying, stunted growth, and, in many cases, complete loss of saplings. Many growers say the situation has become increasingly difficult, with efforts to save plants proving insufficient against extreme weather conditions.

The rising heat has also sharply increased water demand. Saplings now require frequent watering throughout the day, pushing water usage to two to three times the usual levels. At the same time, falling groundwater levels in wells and borewells have made water management more challenging, adding to operational costs.

Alongside higher expenses, nursery operators are also witnessing a drop in customer demand. Plantation activity remains minimal during summer, leading to reduced sales and shrinking income. Many business owners say it has become difficult even to cover basic expenses, including staff wages.

The nursery sector typically depends on seasonal demand, with monsoon months bringing strong sales of fruit plants and winter seeing interest in ornamental and vegetable saplings. However, summer remains the most challenging period due to limited demand and adverse climatic conditions.

With mounting losses, nursery operators are now pinning their hopes on the arrival of the monsoon, expecting business to revive once favourable weather conditions return.

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