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During the month of Adi, the flower is sold for up to Rs 1,000 per kg.
Farmers in Villupuram grow a variety of flowers throughout the year, including jasmine, chrysanthemums and cross flowers.
Do you know which crop in Villupuram is considered a major crop and up to 1,000 kg is sold during the month of Adi?
Vegetables, greens and flowers are the main source of income for farmers in Villupuram district. Among them, flowers are considered the most important crop and one of the main sources of income for farmers in the region. Areas like Radhapuram, Madurapakkam and Thirukanur around Villupuram are heavily involved in flower cultivation and it has proven to be profitable even with low maintenance costs.
Farmers in Villupuram grow a variety of flowers throughout the year, including jasmine, chrysanthemums and cross flowers. However, there has been a decline in the cultivation of Crossandra flower (locally known as Kanakambaram). Although the price of Kanakabalam flowers in Adi was good that month, the production was insufficient.
The period from Avani to Thailand is considered ideal for growing Kanakabalam flowers. Well-drained soil and sandy loam are ideal for growing this flower. The land should be plowed, the seedbed should be prepared, and the sowing depth should be 1 cm. Water on the third day after sowing and then every eight days with salt water.
An investment of up to Rs 7,000 per acre is required for planting Kanakambaram seeds and paying labor wages. The flowers are ready to harvest 80 days after planting.
Although market prices for Kanakabalam flowers are stable throughout the year, farmers still face economic challenges. Traders buy kanakabalam at Rs. 260 rupees per kilogram, and in special seasons the price can go up to rupees. 1,000 per kilogram.
Until 20 years ago, farmers were growing kanakabalam and jasmine flowers. However, with the passage of time, the cultivation of Kanakabalam flowers gradually decreased due to various reasons such as labor shortage.
Currently, Kanakambaram flowers are sold at Rs. Adi 1000 per kilogram. While farmers appreciate the high prices, they still face low yields and insufficient yields. This situation highlights the challenges and opportunities in the floriculture industry in Villupuram.
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