In today’s economy, many individuals are leaving traditional jobs to venture into agriculture, finding success in alternative crops. One such profitable option is strawberry farming, a fruit cultivation with increasing demand across the country. States like Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Haryana, Jharkhand, Rajasthan, Delhi, Himachal Pradesh, and West Bengal are witnessing a surge in strawberry farming, leading to significant earnings for farmers. Even the Jharkhand government is actively promoting strawberry cultivation, providing training to women farmers for self-reliance.
Venturing into Agriculture: The Rise of Profitable Alternative Crops
Strawberries are not only delicious but also rich in Vitamin-C and iron. Varieties like Olympus, Hood, and Shuksan, known for their excellent taste and bright red color, are favored for making ice cream. Commercial farmers in India typically use varieties like Camarosa, Chandler, Ofra, Black Peacock, Sweed Charlie, Elista, and Fair Fox, which are well-suited to the Indian climate.
To start strawberry farming, it’s essential to consider the right time for planting, especially in hilly areas, where the best time is September-October. Sandy loam soil is ideal for cultivation, and proper care should be taken regarding fruit classification based on size, weight, and color. Additionally, strawberries can be stored in cold storage at 32°C for up to 10 days, and if transportation is required, pre-cooling at 40°C within 2 hours is recommended.
Strawberry Farming: Meeting the Increasing Demand Across India
However, strawberry farming can be costly, with expenses reaching around 6 lakh rupees per acre due to the high cost of plants, plastic seat for mulching, boxes, and trays used for packing.
Despite the initial investment, the earning potential from strawberry farming is significant. With proper care and favorable weather conditions, one can easily earn at least Rs 15 lakh per acre, resulting in a profit of up to Rs 9 lakh in six months.
