Browning of <i>Pinus wallichiana</i> A.B. Jacks in the southern region of Kashmir Himalayas: A typical case of Winter Burn

Abstract

Recent field investigations by SKUAST-Kashmir, invited by the J&K Forest Department and Department of Wildlife Protection, have identified Winter Burn induced by prolonged drought stress as the primary cause of Pinus wallichiana mortality in southern region of Kashmir covering the districts of Anantnag and Pulwama. Historically, these sites retained snow cover until late winter; however, in recent years, early warming has led to rapid snowmelt. Ground assessment showed no visual evidence of common pine diseases, though needle samples were collected for laboratory verification. Symptoms notably browning of upper branches align with drought impact. The species' moderate to low drought tolerance, linked to its shallower root system, renders it more vulnerable compared to the deep-rooted, highly drought tolerant Cedrus deodara. Extended dry spells using climatic data including temperature, precipitation and soil moisture data during the past years amplified physiological stress, increasing susceptibility to Winter Burn. Encouragingly, recent rainfall has triggered visible recovery, with new needles emerging on previously browned branches. This phenomenon underscores the ecological consequences of shifting climatic patterns in the Himalayan region and highlights the need for adaptive forest management strategies. Such shifting climatic patterns if continue for a long time may have strong ecological, hydrological and socio-economic consequences to the region.