A tropical fruit known by the name of kokum is used in medicine and cooking. It is typically found in coastal regions and has a sour taste. Herbal remedies, coolers, and curries are all made with the extract. Kokum is in great demand due to its large profit margin and low maintenance requirements. An organised procedure can help you produce a wholesome kokum crop. This blog goes into detail about every stage of growing kokum. Farmers who are working on planting and soil preparation find life simpler with modern tractors like the Mahindra Novo. Now, let’s get into further detail about growing kokum.
Understanding Kokum Cultivation
Every crop farming is comprised of different processes, and by following them, farmers can harvest better yields. So, we are presenting the important steps for kokum farming that you need to follow.
Finding the Right Location
The aromatic fruit Kokum grows well in warm, humid, and tropical climates. Particularly in areas where rainfall takes place moderately, and the sun shines regularly. The plant grows in coastal and low-altitude areas with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 35°C. The sufficient humidity levels during the fruiting season support strong growth and healthy fruits.
Kokum roots don’t like waterlogged areas. It is important to choose land that has a slopy surface so that the water can flow easily. The type of soil is also a crucial factor when it comes to growing kokum. Kokum thrives best in sandy loam or well-drained lateritic soils as they enhance root growth. Check the soil’s acidity level by conducting a PH test. Optimal plant health is achieved by maintaining a slightly acidic pH level around 5.5 to 6.5. Before planting, organic compost or farmyard manure should be added to the soil if it lacks nutrients.
Land Preparation
Getting the soil ready is seen as the foundation for establishing a prosperous kokum orchard. First, the weeds, stones, and other debris must be removed from the ground. Ploughing the field numerous times helps to loosen the soil, allowing roots to grow deep and absorb nutrients more effectively.
Evaluate soil quality by conducting a soil examination. Assess the soil’s nutrient composition and measure its pH. If the pH falls lower than the target range, include lime to balance the acidity. To counteract high pH, soil can be supplemented with sulphur or organic compost. Add vermicompost, chicken manure, or well-decomposed animal waste to the soil to increase its fertility. Tractors such as the Sonalika di 35 rx provide excellent productivity for small-scale farmers. Furthermore, the Sonalika tractor di 35 rx price is reasonable, allowing farmers to stay within their budget.
Selecting Quality Saplings
Choosing healthy kokum saplings is the initial stage in establishing a successful orchard. Make sure to buy saplings from approved nurseries to guarantee they are pest and disease-free. Choose grafted plants over seed-grown ones for quicker maturation and earlier fruit production. Inspect the saplings for consistent growth, healthy green foliage, and strong root structures. It is crucial to ensure that the young plants come from kokum varieties that yield a high amount of produce in order to optimize your output. Choosing the right trees will result in better durability and productivity for your kokum trees over time.
Planting Techniques
For kokum trees to develop healthily, proper spacing is important. Kokum trees spread out, and crowding can cause competition for nutrients, water, and sunshine. Plants should be spaced five to six meters apart to allow for enough air circulation and root expansion.
Make trenches around 60 cm deep and 60 cm wide before planting. Setting out the pits in advance lets the dirt settle and keeps the area surrounding the roots from being compacted. To provide a nutrient-rich basis for the sapling, combine dirt, organic compost, and farmyard manure in the hole. To avoid infection, make sure the root ball of the sapling rests comfortably in the pit and that the graft union, if any, is elevated above the ground.
Irrigation
Watering young kokum plants frequently is necessary, particularly in the heat. Steer clear of excessive watering as this might cause root rot. Due to their thick roots, established plants require less water. One efficient way to supply consistent moisture and save water is through drip irrigation.
Fertilisation
Use compost and cow manure as organic fertilisers twice a year. Utilise fertilisers high in nitrogen throughout the growth season. The health of the plant is guaranteed and fruit output is increased with proper fertilisation.
Pruning and Weeding
Regular pruning of kokum plants is necessary to get rid of unhealthy or dead branches. Pruning increases the amount of sunshine and air movement. Eliminate weeds often to avoid competing for nutrients.
Common Pests
Although kokum plants are generally resistant to pests, they might nevertheless encounter problems like aphids or fruit borers. To manage pests, apply natural insecticides such as neem oil. Frequent monitoring aids in prevention and early discovery.
Disease Prevention
Typical kokum illnesses include leaf spot and root rot. To lower the risk of illness, avoid overwatering and keep the right distance between plants. When required, use fungicides; however, for environmental reasons, use organic solutions instead.
Harvesting
After five to seven years of cultivation, kokum fruits are ready for harvest. Select mature purple or deep-red fruits. When the fruits are completely ripe, which is often in April and May, harvesting takes place.
Post-Harvest Processing
Process kokum fruits immediately after harvesting to maintain quality. Sun-dry the fruit rind to make kokum butter or powder. Store dried products in airtight containers to preserve freshness. Kokum juice can also be extracted and bottled for commercial purposes.
Benefits of Kokum Cultivation
Market Demand
Kokum is in high demand for its unique flavour and medicinal properties. It is widely used in the food and beverage industry. Farmers can earn good profits by selling kokum products locally or exporting them.
Environmental Benefits
Kokum trees improve soil health and prevent erosion. They are well-suited for agroforestry systems, supporting sustainable farming practices.
Conclusion
Kokum is a profitable and sustainable farming process. Not everyone takes much care of this unique fruit, and by giving the same proper care and attention, you can enjoy its benefits. From the suitable location for growing to the harvesting and processing, every step is essential for kokum cultivation. With the help of these guidelines within this blog post, you can successfully cultivate kokum and contribute to the rising demand for this versatile fruit.
Farmers of kokum may benefit in the long run by prompt insect management, regular upkeep, and efficient harvesting techniques.