18 December2024, New Delhi: The intercropping of dragon fruit with marigold has emerged as a successful model for boosting farmers’ income and production through participatory technology development. The initiative, led by the ICAR-Indian Institute of Vegetable Research (ICAR-IIVR), Varanasi, in collaboration with ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) in Bhadohi, Deoria, and Kushinagar districts, aims to uplift the socio-economic status of farmers and promote entrepreneurship among unemployed rural youth.
One inspiring example of this innovation is Seemant Mishra, a highly educated farmer from Kurauna, Bhadohi. Armed with an M.Sc. in Horticulture, Mishra visited ICAR-KVK Bhadohi during his studies and gained insights into dragon fruit cultivation from experts, YouTube, newspapers, and the District Horticulture Office. Motivated by this knowledge, he embarked on dragon fruit cultivation on his 0.25-hectare farm in July 2022, purchasing 488 cuttings and planting 444 plants using 111 cemented poles.
While dragon fruit typically flowers only in its second year, Mishra sought to make optimal use of the space between rows during the first year. With guidance from ICAR-KVK experts, he adopted diversified intercropping to generate additional income. The recommended crops included coriander, Kasuri methi, tomato, chilli, and marigold. The experts also provided a complete package of best practices, including varietal selection, nutrient management, and pest control solutions.
Mishra planted 2000 marigold saplings purchased at ₹1 per sapling from the Mohansarai area of Varanasi. The marigold flowers were sold loose daily at ₹20-30 per kg, earning ₹25,000 over three months. After deducting cultivation costs, he achieved a net profit of ₹15,000, with a B:C ratio of 1.67, indicating the venture’s profitability. He also saved ₹2000 by using homegrown tomato, chilli, coriander, and Kasuri methi for household consumption.
Encouraged by his success, Mishra and his father expanded their efforts by planting 3500 marigold saplings in November 2023. They continued growing other crops like tomato, chilli, and coriander separately. Meanwhile, dragon fruit plants in rows began producing 22-25 high-quality fruits. Their innovative intercropping model has drawn the attention of farmers and youth from nearby villages, who have visited their fields and adopted the practice.
(For Latest Agriculture News & Updates, follow Krishak Jagat on Google News) (+80 Million Farming Audience Visits Krishak Jagat’s Hindi Website – Click Here for Website)
