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Dragon fruit farming gains ground in Erode


S. Nagaraj, a farmer, harvests dragon fruit at his farm in Kugalur village in Gobichettipalayam taluk in Erode district in Tamil Nadu
| Photo Credit: M. Govarthan

The exotic pink-hued dragon fruit (Selenicereus undatus), commonly referred to as Kamalam in India, is fast emerging as a profitable crop among farmers in Erode district.

A climbing cactus native to South and Central America, dragon fruit is valued for its rich antioxidant content, high vitamin C levels, dietary fibre and low calorie count. With a lifespan of over 20 years, the crop begins economic production within the first year and reaches full productivity in three to four years.

In Erode district, around 12 acres are under cultivation by five farmers in areas such as Sathyamangalam, Kadambur, Gobichettipalayam and Anthiyur. The fruit’s high market value and relatively low maintenance have made it increasingly popular.

Dragon fruits harvested at a farm in Kugalur village in Gobichettipalayam taluk in Erode district in Tamil Nadu

Dragon fruits harvested at a farm in Kugalur village in Gobichettipalayam taluk in Erode district in Tamil Nadu
| Photo Credit:
M. Govarthan

One such farmer, S. Nagaraj of Erode, has cultivated dragon fruit on his one-acre plot at Kugalur village in Gobichettipalayam taluk, using saplings sourced from Andhra Pradesh. In 2023, he planted 3,850 saplings using the trellis method, with an initial investment of about ₹7 lakh. Within a year, the plants began bearing fruit, each yielding between 15 to 20 kg.

Harvesting is done twice a week, with the produce sold to street vendors, retail outlets such as Pazhamudir Nilayam, and markets in Coimbatore. The harvesting season runs from June to September. Each fruit weighs between 300 and 650 grams, and a single harvest yields approximately 350 kg per acre. “Last year, the fruits fetched up to ₹150 per kg, while this year, prices have dropped to ₹120 due to arrivals from Bengaluru, where the wholesale rate is around ₹80 per kg,” Nagaraj said.

Although the crop is hardy and adaptable to various climates, excessive heat and fungal infections pose major challenges. Nagaraj employs natural farming practices, relying solely on organic inputs like cow dung and neem cake, and sustains the crop using drip irrigation.

As awareness grows about its nutritional benefits and commercial potential, dragon fruit farming is quickly establishing itself as a viable and sustainable option for farmers across the district.



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