Kerala - Kochi   

Experimental cultivation of cabbage, cauliflower successful

KOCHI: Buoyed by the promising results of the cultivation of winter crops such as cabbage and cauliflower in the State on a trial basis last year, Vegetable and Fruits Promotion Council Keralam (VFPCK) is set to extend the cultivation of these crops on a commercial basis.

Originally identified as cultivable in areas with conditions like the high range areas of Idukki district and to certain extent in Nelliampathy in Palakkad district, these winter vegetables were cultivated on a trial basis in more areas by the VFPCK under the participatory technology development scheme.

Under the scheme, hot-set variety seeds were distributed among farmers. The experiment was found successful as cabbage heads and cauliflower curds sprouted in the majority of cases.

The overall result, including in places like Thrissur, previously considered “unsuitable” for these crops, was promising, VFPCK sources said.

There were even instances where cabbage weighing 1 kg was produced in some of these areas.

Driven by the success, the VFPCK is promoting cultivation of both the crops in all the districts of the State. Seeds will be made available to farmers through farming self-help groups. As the damping-off in cabbage and cauliflower seedlings was found to be on the higher side from the experience during the trial run, the VFPCK has given tips on maintaining it at nurseries without getting rotten. The farmers have been advised to take the seedlings to the fields by mid-November. The produce would be sold through VFPCK outlets.

Since the crop period for both cabbage and cauliflower did not exceed 70 to 80 days, they could be utilised as a rotation crop in the State during the winter season. Farmers would also be interested as it would be a deviation from the conventional crops. Besides, there is the added advantage of producing these crops here, which at present are being brought almost entirely from other States.

The success in the trial farming of cabbage and cauliflower has encouraged the VFPCK to try the experiment in crops like carrot, beetroot, and capsicum. These crops would be cultivated on a trial basis this year. If found successful, its cultivation would be undertaken on a wider scale across the State next year, the VFPCK sources said.

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