India – A country filled with farmers and farmlands contributing in no small amount to the country’s development. There are a plethora of crops that grow in India, but some of them go unsung. These crops are in demand both inside and outside the country, but most farmers don’t grow these as they lack the awareness and resources to grow such crops. But globalisation is around the corner, propelling the world toward new, rich tastes everyone can sample. As a result, such unpopular crops are coming more and more inside the mainstream, and making the change to growing these crops would mean profits for your farm! Read on to learn more about these crops and how to grow them on your farms!
This blog is about the demand for these less popular crops and advice on how to grow them in your fields.
The Fragrant Flower: Lavender
Lavender is a perennial flowering aromatic herb or shrub that can reach a height of 40 cm to 80 cm. The leaves of the Lavender plant are opposite, oblong-linear with small flowers. The Lavender plant originated in the Mediterranean region. You must have the right climate to grow this plant, similar to the Mediterranean area. Lavender can grow in backyards, pots/containers as well. A few dozen lavender plants growing in the backyard can make you rich. The commercial cultivation of Lavender on a large scale can fetch crores of rupees.
Lavender farming is an easy process. You’ll only want to start farming lavender if you already have sandy or loam soil. Trying to amend heavy clay soil won’t be financially viable. All you have to do with prepare your soil and plant lavender! But then again, no plant is without its fair share of cultivation problems.
Moreover, your access to markets is limited with lavender than the popular crops. And the cultivation of knowledge may not be much either. But once you learn what to do and commit to research, you can become a lavender farming star!
The Climate Resilient Crop: Chia Seeds
One other less popular crop that you should know of is chia seeds. These tiny seeds are full of essential nutrients to our bodies. Chia seeds are omega-3 fatty acids that are beneficial for the heart. There is a huge market for Chia seeds for their amazing health benefits.
Like millets, chia seeds are also easy to grow. Chia seeds can grow from both seeds and seedlings. First, prepare the soil for the crop. This can be done with the help of a good tractor. For example, a John Deere 5205 can finish the job without any hassle. Just sprinkle the seeds over the soil. And stab them gently and cover them with soil. Watering should be at regular intervals. Chia seeds start sprouting within 7 to 10 days. Despite its many benefits, its low yield tends to be a deal breaker for most farmers. However, provided that you know how to make the most of your plantation, you can go for chia seed farming and make money, as chia seeds are in demand constantly.
The Aromatic Fruit: Kiwi
Having its origins in China, kiwi can grow in India easily. It is used to make juice, jams, and more products. The fruit has a distinct sweet and tangy taste due to its high vitamin C content. It also contains folate and many other essential minerals. Medicinally speaking, this fruit reduces the risk of heart disease and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Kiwi farming is also easy, as it can grow well in humid and warm environments. All you have to do with prepare your soil with a cultivator mounted to your John Deere 5405 and plant kiwi! Furthermore, the fruit requires loamy, deep yellow-brown soil that is well-drained and fertile. You can grow it in pots or soil directly as well. It is becoming popular farm and wide in the beverage industry. It, therefore, has the potential to become a key source of income should you choose to grow it.
As expected, this isn’t without its problems as well when it comes to growing this crop. Knowing how to grow can get you ahead while lacking such know-how can pull you down further. You have to know where to plant it, the distance, etc.
The Medicinal Plant: Stevia
Stevia is a “wonder crop” with a strong sweet taste that has been used to sweeten drinks and make tea since the sixteenth century. It is believed to reduce blood sugar levels and control high blood pressure. With India choosing to eat healthier, the leaves of this crop can aid in such development!
Stevia farming is also easy, as it doesn’t need much water or fertilisation to thrive. You can grow it in pots or soil directly as well. It is becoming popular farm and wide in the beverage industry. It, therefore, has the potential to become a key source of income should you choose to grow it.
Conclusion
In conclusion, many crops in India have the potential to meet market demands and provide farmers with good profits. The five crops we’ve discussed in this article, quinoa, millet, amaranth, lemongrass, and Saffron, may not be commonly grown but offer unique nutritional benefits, potential markets, and cultivation advantages.
By diversifying their crops and exploring alternative options, farmers can find success in India’s agricultural sector. While challenges exist regarding cultivation knowledge and market access, the benefits of growing these less popular crops make them worth considering for farmers looking to expand their operations.
