NONI - A PROMISING FRUIT FOR HEALTH
Noni(Morinda citrifolia) also called as Indian mulberry
is a small evergreen tree that grows to a height of 10 -12
feet. The fruits are used in the manufacture of fruit drinks,
medicines and dyes.Propagated through
seedlings,noni can be
cultivated in all soil types though loamy soils are ideal.
The tree is from major pests and disease infestations.It
can be ideally grown in tsunami affected coastal areas.
About 290 seedlings are
required for planting in an acre.
The seedlings are to be planted at a spacing of about 12 X 12
feet.
The crop can survive with moderate irrigation and can survive
even in drought conditions.But it is advisable for farmers to
irrigate the crop during early stages of growth. Similar to
other crops weeding has to be done manually as and when required
About Rs 29,000 is the investment required for planting and
the crop yields an income of around Rs.22,5oo per hectare.
The fruits can be harvested in about 24 months after planting
and the tree can be maintained even for a period of more than
20 years if taken care of properly.
A noni tree yields 50-150 fruits. Each fruit weighs 5-15kg.
At present the fruits are priced at Rs.5 per kg .Ripe fruits
can be stored for up to 10 days and juice extracted within
that time.
The Chennai based World Noni Research Foundation (WNRF), is
promoting noni cultivation with an assured buy back arrangement
of at Rs.8 per kg.
For complete details readers can contact Dr.K.V. Peter,
Professor and Former Vice-Chancellor,Kerala agricultural
University,P.O KAU,Thrissur-680656,Kerala,email-kvptr@yahoo.com
phone;0487-2373017 and also visit the website
ww.nonifamily.net.