This summer, markets are full of jamuns (Indian blackberries), far more than we have seen in many years. Even trees that produced very little fruit last year are now laden with jamuns. Our grandmothers had a simple explanation: when jamun trees bear an unusually heavy crop in summer, it often signals a drought year. Scientists describe this as masting or stress fruiting. When trees experience water stress or changing climatic conditions, they may channel more energy into producing seeds instead of new growth to help ensure the survival of the species.
Jamun trees have deep roots that can sense changes in groundwater levels long before people notice them. An exceptionally good fruiting season could therefore be nature’s early warning of a dry spell ahead. This connection between traditional wisdom and scientific understanding is remarkable. As we enjoy the abundance of jamuns, we should also take their message seriously and use water carefully and responsibly.
Assis Everette Telles via email
