A farmer of Erakudi in Uppilliyapuram block has adopted an innovative cultivation technique taking due advantage of climatic and soil conditions in the block, in general, and in his fields, in particular.
N. Narendran (44), the farmer, has cultivated ‘panneer’ grapes variety on half an acre of his farm after obtaining the seasoned ratoon from Theni.
“A sustained crop protection technique is needed for cultivating grape,” he says adding that this was his second attempt to raise the crop. In his earlier attempt, although the crop had developed some growth, it suddenly failed leading to financial loss. Undaunted by the failure, he raised the crop with awareness of corrective measures.
Groundnut cake is the most important ingredient for the growth of the grape plants. In the initial phase, all through the first month, the cake, dissolved in water, should be applied. “Later on, the powdered cake should be sprayed all along the fields,” he says explaining the strategy he has adopted.
At the end of the year, the crop is ready for harvest once in three months.
“The crop can be harvested for at least a decade. The period of harvest can be 20 years depending on maintenance of the crop,” he says. The quantum of harvest would vary from quarter to quarter depending on the growth of the fruits.
Encouraged by Mr. Narendran’s initiative, the Horticulture Department has extended adequate support to him through subsidy-based scheme for setting up drip irrigation implements, stone pillars and nets for the creeper.
T. Chandrasekaran, Deputy Director of Horticulture, said that Uppilliyapuram block was suitable for raising grapes in the past. Even Mr. Narendran’s father was a progressive grape cultivator a few decades ago. The humidity was over and above 80 per cent, an ideal condition for the crop. The soil texture was suitable for raising the crop.
He has appealed to the farmers of Uppilliyapuram, Thuraiyur, Thottiyam and Thathaiyengarpet to raise grapes as all these areas were suitable for the crop. The department would extend its support to the promising farmers, he added.
