Black Turmeric Farming: Farmers can earn huge profits by cultivating this medicinal crop, know how to do it
Black Turmeric Farming: Farmers in the Amreli area of Gujarat’s Saurashtra region are now shifting from traditional farming to cultivating medicinal crops. Especially the cultivation of black turmeric has given farmers a new way to move forward. Farmers are now earning a good amount because farming is being done in a systematic manner.
The most expensive medicinal crop ever
Manasi Vasoya Black turmeric, sometimes also called Narakachur, is a crucial medicinal crop, according to H.R.J. Chodwadia. Its scientific name is Curcuma cassia. It is in great demand in the market due to its many medicinal benefits. Its price ranges between Rs 400 and Rs 600 per kilogram.
Plant identification and structure
The height of the black turmeric plant is between 20 and 30 cm. It has large, thick leaves, which have a black stripe. The inside of its tubers is purple or black. This is the main reason for its medicinal properties, which makes it unique.
What kind of climate is it grown in?
The ideal environment for this crop is considered to be hot and humid. It grows best in temperatures between 15 and 40 degrees Celsius. It is best to sow it in May or just before the rainy season.
Soil preparation is a first step
Before cultivation, the soil of the field should be plowed well. We add vermicompost, neem khali, trichoderma, and gypsum to it to promote rapid growth and disease resistance of the plants. Organic farming is fully compatible with this method.
Seeds or tubers are used for sowing
There are two ways to grow black turmeric: from seeds or tubers. About two quintals of seeds are required in one hectare of field. Approximately 20 quintals of tubers are needed for planting per hectare. These tubers are planted in the field only after treating them with the disease-preventive drug Bavistin.
Mathematics of production and income
Usually two to three kilos of fresh tubers are obtained from one plant. Planting 1500 plants in one hectare yields a total of 48 quintals of black turmeric. According to the market price, farmers can earn lakhs of rupees from a single crop. The market is experiencing a boom due to increased demand. These days the demand for medicines is continuously increasing at the domestic and international level. In such a situation, growing black turmeric is becoming an attractive business for farmers. Apart from this, there is also a possibility of its export, which can increase the revenue of the country.
