Manpower shortage hits rose gardens in Hosur

Krishnagiri: Manpower shortage has severely hit the maintenance of rose gardens in Hosur, affecting the production levels.The rose gardens in Hosur supplies flowers across the country and abroad. Cultivators said essential works like pruning, soil enrichment, irrigation and pest control had slowed down or stalled altogether owing to the shortage of workforce. As a result, plants are showing signs of stress, with reduced flowering and decline in quality. "We depend on these roses for both domestic sales and exports. If maintenance continues to falter, our livelihoods will be at stake," said P Senthil, a farmer from Bagalur. Farmers said the extreme weather conditions were also affecting the health of rose gardens and sought immediate intervention from authorities. Agricultural experts warned that prolonged neglect could affect the long-term sustainability of the gardens. "Roses, though resilient, require consistent care to maintain yield and quality," said an expert, urging the restoration of maintenance activities to protect Hosur's reputation as a hub of flourishing rose cultivation.