How to do Fig Cultivation, Farmers are Earning Profits Worth Lakhs

Figs are a type of fruit that is commonly consumed in dried form and is also known simply as fig. They are readily available in the market at a reasonable price per kilogram. Considered the sweetest fruit globally, figs boast a significant calcium content. The roots of fig trees are notably robust, often extending to heights of up to 10 meters, contributing to bone strength. A single fig plant can yield approximately 20 kilograms of fruit. Dried figs are recognized for their numerous health benefits. Figs thrive in temperate and tropical climates, requiring consistent sunlight for optimal growth. They are predominantly cultivated in Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Tamil Nadu, favoring loamy soil conditions. Once a fig plant begins fruiting, it continues to do so for 50-60 years. Figs typically ripen during the summer season, with fruits exhibiting a greenish-yellow color, typically appearing from April to June.

Soil, Climate, and Temperature for Fig Cultivation:

Figs can be grown in all types of soil. The pH level of the soil should ideally range between 6 to 7. For proper development, fig plants require a temperature of 25-30 degrees Celsius. They have the capacity to tolerate higher temperatures. They require minimal water. They thrive well in warm, dry, shade-free environments with subtropical and temperate conditions. Moreover, they flourish better with organic fertilizers.

Figs Cultivation Method and Benefits:

Similar to establishing an orchard, figs are planted by initially digging 8x8 pits, which are then filled with manure. After blending the manure with the soil, the plant is placed in it. In one acre of land, 680 plants can be accommodated. These plants are small and require minimal water. Instead of using pipes for watering, drip irrigation can be employed for an hour. The plants typically begin to grow within 3-4 months.
In the market, figs are priced between 100-150 rupees per kilogram. Each plant yields approximately 6 kilograms of figs. With 680 plants per acre, the total fig production can reach 4080 kilograms. By selling these in the market, farmers can earn up to 5-6 lakh rupees, ensuring substantial profits for them.

Advanced Varieties of Figs:

1. Pune This variety showcases remarkable resilience in tree diversity and adapts well to diverse environmental conditions. Its fruit skin is greenish-yellow, making it ideal for both making preserved jelly and consuming raw. It also demonstrates relative disease resistance.
2. Afghan This variety starts fruiting within three months of planting. It boasts high nutritional value, being rich in healthy fats, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Additionally, it supports reproductive health.
3. Common Fig The prevalent variety in India, common figs release milky sap when leaves and branches are broken.

Health Benefits of Figs: Figs are a dietary powerhouse rich in fiber, aiding in weight management and reduction. Consuming figs gives you a feeling of fullness while curbing your appetite. This helps in maintaining longer intervals between meals and gradually reducing meal portions over time. Figs also assist in the treatment of various digestive issues such as constipation, stomach pain, etc. With high levels of fiber, figs soften and bulk up stool. Consuming figs enhances the digestive system's efficiency by accelerating food transit and making digestion more effective. Figs also contain several antioxidants that help cleanse the skin and improve skin health.

The Importance of Figs: Ancient Olympic-level athletes often consumed figs because they were rich in nutrients. It enhances the strength of young people, improves the health of the elderly, and slows down the effects of aging in everyone. Figs are considered the tree of life in Egypt. Figs have played a significant role in every modern religion.

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