Fig cultivation: A profitable venture for Indian horticulture farmers 

Nasik: The name of figs has been mentioned in the holy books. Its cultivation has been taking place since the ancient age. The fruit is replete with nutritious values. Gradually, fig farming is gaining popularity in several states such as Maharashtra, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, and Uttar Pradesh, fetching handsome incomes for farmers. Currently, fig farming is a lucrative venture for the horticulture farmers due to its increasing demand in the market.

Figs are grown easily in temperate and subtropical regions; it needs loamy soils with good drainage and a pH range of 6.0 to 8.0. The Indian climate is ideal for its cultivation because the fruits grow adequately in dry and saline conditions. In summer months, heat increases figs sweetness, which enhances their cultivation potential.

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Several varieties of figs have been cultivated in India; among them, the Poona fig is being widely grown. It is known for its sweetness and quality. Other well-known varieties that are commonly grown in the country include Adriatic, Black Schia, and Brown Turkey.

In recent times, California hybrids have gained remarkable results in India, giving better production and quality compared to traditional varieties. The Coimbatore fig, a type of Adriatic fig, has been considered superior to the Poona fig.

Currently, over 700 varieties of figs are being grown worldwide; the Indian fig farming is developing rapidly to meet the increasing demand of consumers. The horticulture farmers have an opportunity to tap fig farming and increase their earnings.