Lemon cultivation is considered one of the most profitable forms of farming. The plants yield produce for several years after full development, making it a cost-effective and high-yield crop. With minimal maintenance, lemon trees can provide a steady annual harvest, and their productivity increases over the years.
Lemon Cultivation Across India
Lemons are grown extensively across twelve states in India. Regions such as Bihar, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, Assam, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, and Gujarat witness widespread lemon cultivation. India is recognized as the largest producer of lemons globally, and the demand for this citrus fruit remains consistent throughout the year.
Varieties for Enhanced Production
Choosing improved varieties of lemons is crucial for better production. Post-planting care plays a vital role in ensuring a bountiful harvest. A well-maintained lemon tree can produce between 20 to 30 kilograms of lemons annually. Some popular lemon varieties include Florida Raf, Karn or Khatta lemon, and Jam lemon.
Soil Requirements
Lemon plants thrive in well-draining soils, with loamy or red loamy soil being ideal. Mixing compost or cow dung with the soil enhances its fertility. In regions with acidic or alkaline soil, lime or dolomite can be added to create a suitable environment for lemon cultivation. Hilly terrains are also suitable for lemon farming.
Planting Process
Lemons can be grown from both seeds and seedlings. Planting during June and August is considered optimal, as the plants develop rapidly during the monsoon season. Maintaining a distance of 10 meters between each plant ensures proper growth. Applying cow dung or compost to the soil during planting significantly improves yield.
Watering and Care
Lemon plants require adequate watering, especially during the initial stages. In areas with heavy rainfall, supplementary irrigation may be necessary. Fertilizing with 300 grams of urea in the first year and providing proper care during the winter season contribute to the overall health of the lemon trees.
Harvesting and Income
Lemon trees start bearing fruit three to four months after flowering. Harvesting involves separating the ripe lemons from the tree. On average, a hectare of lemon orchard can yield around 4 to 5 lakh rupees annually. The income from lemon cultivation increases with each passing year, making it a sustainable and lucrative venture.
Best Tips for Lemon Cultivation /Farming – A Comprehensive Guide
Lemon cultivation is not only rich in various medicinal properties but also highly beneficial for farmers. Recently, farmers in and around Delhi have shifted from traditional farming to cultivating lemons. This trend is not limited to specific regions; states like Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Bihar, Punjab, Haryana, Eastern Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan are witnessing significant lemon production.
1. Planting Lemon Trees:
- Approximately 300 lemon saplings are planted per acre.
- Saplings start yielding lemons from the third year onwards.
- Fertilization is done thrice a year, typically in February, June, and September.
- Lemon trees can produce 20 to 30 kilograms of lemons per tree, with thick-skinned lemons yielding up to 30 to 40 kilograms.
2. Harvesting and Marketing:
- Lemons are usually harvested twice a year, in November-December and May-June.
- Prices vary, with farmers fetching around 30 to 40 rupees per kilogram, while traders sell them at double the rate.
- A successful harvest can yield profits of 5 to 7 lakh rupees per acre.
3. Precautions During Lemon cultivation:
- Farmers need to be cautious about diseases like Citrus Decline.
- Regular pruning and removal of dry and diseased branches are crucial.
- Borer holes on the main trunk should be cleaned and sealed with petrol or kerosene-soaked cotton.
- Infected leaves and branches should be removed and burned, and the garden soil should be plowed.
4. Chemical Fertilization:
- Use organic fertilizers like 25 kg well-rotted manure or compost, 4.5 kg neem cake, and 200 grams Trichoderma Powder per mature tree.
- Chemical fertilizers like 1 kg urea, 800 grams single superphosphate, and 500 grams muriate of potash should be applied in June-July and October.
5. Pest Control:
- For pest control, a mixture of amidaclorpid (1 ml/2 liters), queenalphas (2 ml/liter), and dimethoate (1 ml/1 liter) or carboryl (2 grams/liter) can be sprayed.
- Metalaxyl and Mancozeb are effective against Phytophthora.
- A combination of Blitox 50 (2 grams/liter) and streptocycline or pausamycin (1 gram/2 liters) can be used for managing citrus canker.
Lemon Cultivation: A Comprehensive Guide
Lemon cultivation/ farming is gaining popularity among farmers due to its numerous health benefits and economic viability. In recent times, farmers in and around Delhi have shifted from traditional crops to cultivating lemons. States like Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Bihar, Punjab, Haryana, Eastern Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and the Delhi-NCR region are witnessing a surge in lemon production.
Best Time to Lemon cultivation
The ideal time to plant lemon saplings is during the months of July and August. The process begins with digging holes approximately one meter apart and filling them with well-matured cow dung after exposure to sunlight for 10-15 days. Planting lime and lemon together is a common practice, and the saplings should be spaced about 4 to 4.5 meters apart. Farmers can start intercropping with other crops after the initial two to three years of lemon cultivation.
Health Benefits of Lemons
Lemons are rich in vitamins A, B, and C, along with essential minerals like potassium, iron, sodium, magnesium, copper, phosphorus, and chlorine. They also contain adequate amounts of protein, fat, and carbohydrates. The high Vitamin C content in lemons enhances the body’s immune system, acts as an antioxidant, and reduces cholesterol levels. Regular consumption of lemon juice helps in preventing hypertension and colds.
Fertilization and Manure
For optimal growth, lemon plants require fertilization three times a year, typically in February, June, and September. The fertilizer composition may vary based on soil conditions, plant age, and growth stage. Micro-nutrient mixtures should be applied once or twice a year for balanced nutrition.
Intercropping with Lemon Cultivation /Farming
Lemon orchards can be intercropped with crops like peas, French beans, or other vegetables. However, intercropping is recommended only during the initial two to three years. Pruning and thinning should be carried out regularly to promote strong branch development.
Pest and Disease Management
Common Pests:
- Citrus psylla
- Leaf miners
- Scale insects
- Orange shoot borer
- Fruit fly
- Sucking pests
Control Measures:
- For citrus psylla: Spray Methidathion at 0.05% or Monocrotophos at 0.025%.
- For leaf miners: Apply Phosphomidon at 1 mL per liter.
- For scale insects: Use Carbaryl at 0.05%.
- For orange shoot borer: Employ Malathion at 0.05% or Endosulfan at 0.05%.
Harvesting Lemons
Lemons are usually ready for harvesting during the summer and monsoon seasons, with two to three crops possible in a year. Harvesting decisions are based on the fruit’s developed color. Lime and sweet lime are harvested after reaching the desired size and color.
Yield Range
- Lemon Trees: Typically start bearing 40-45 fruits per tree in the 4th to 5th year, with an average yield of 400-500 fruits per tree annually after the 10th year.
- Sweet Lime Trees: Commence production with 15-20 fruits per tree in the third or fourth year, stabilizing at an average of 175-250 fruits per tree after the 8th year.
- Lime Trees: Begin producing 50-60 fruits per tree from the second or third year, with an average yield of around 700 fruits per tree after the 8th year.
Conclusion
Lemon cultivation is a viable option for farmers seeking a profitable and low-maintenance crop. By choosing the right varieties, maintaining proper care, and ensuring suitable soil conditions, farmers can enjoy a steady income from lemon farming. With the versatility of lemons in the market, this citrus fruit continues to be a sought-after commodity, contributing to the economic well-being of farmers across India.
By following these guidelines, farmers can maximize lemon production, optimize fruit quality, and ensure a sustainable and profitable lemon farming venture.
Also Read – Watermelon Cultivation: A Guide to Successful Farming