WEB DESK: Farmers in Pakistan’s Gadap area are embracing the cultivation of dragon fruit, seeing it as a key opportunity to establish the country as a prominent exporter, driven by its progressive agricultural practices.
In addition, they are urging the government to allocate up to one acre of land to impoverished farmers, taking advantage of the region’s favorable climate to generate substantial foreign exchange earnings.
Moreover, they argue that these initiatives could mitigate unemployment issues arising from layoffs in Karachi’s industrial zones, which are struggling due to high energy costs and ineffective government policies.
Ideal Climate for Dragon Fruit Farming
The barren lands spanning thousands of acres in Gadap are considered ideal for promoting dragon fruit farming. Renowned globally for its health benefits and distinct sweet taste, dragon fruit commands high prices.
Currently, Vietnam and Thailand dominate global exports due to their conducive year-round weather conditions.
The coastal regions of Sindh and Balochistan, from Thatta through Karachi to Hub, Gadani, and other parts of Balochistan, are identified as particularly suitable for dragon fruit cultivation. The temperature range of 10 to 40 degrees Celsius in these areas provides optimal conditions, ensuring the plants grow quickly without extremes of heat or cold.
Addressing Climate Change Concerns
Farmers have noted that this year’s fruit season started late by about six weeks due to intense heat linked to climate change. Typically, the plants begin flowering in May, with fruits ripe for harvest after 45 days. Each plant yields three cycles of fruit per season, from May through October to November.
Read More: Rain, thunderstorms are predicted in most parts of the country today
Pioneering Efforts in Dragon Fruit Farming
Captain Rizwan Rehman, the owner of Delicious Dragon Fruit Farm and Nursery and a pioneer in High-Density Dragon Farming in Pakistan, highlighted the fruit’s rapid growth, popularity, and health benefits. Previously selling for Rs3,000 per kilo wholesale, prices have now adjusted to Rs1,500 per kilo. A single rooted plant, which costs Rs500, can yield at least 20 cuttings/rooted plants annually.
Rehman states, “I’ve cultivated over 80 varieties, including jam red, Morocco red, royal red, red ruby, Philippine purple, Vietnam red, Vietnam white, and the latest ‘dark star’ variety this season.
Furthermore, these varieties boast sugar levels ranging from 16 to 19.5 brix, making them as sweet as mangoes. I continue to research and introduce new varieties like red velvet, Taiwan jumbo, and Israeli yellow, focusing on enhancing sweetness levels as per local preferences.”
Conclusion
The push for dragon fruit cultivation in Pakistan represents a promising avenue for economic growth, addressing unemployment, and leveraging the country’s favorable climate. With the right government support and incentives, Pakistan could soon become a significant player in the global dragon fruit market.
