Grape cultivation is no longer confined to Nasik; it is now becoming a reality in Uttar Pradesh as well under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.
Residents are successfully growing grapes in their kitchen gardens and farms demonstrating that with the right variety and expert guidance, grape cultivation is not difficult.
To ensure successful grape production, selecting the appropriate variety and proper pruning at the right time are essential. One popular variety, ‘Flame Seedless’, has been identified as particularly well-suited for Uttar Pradesh. This discovery was made after extensive trials conducted by the Central Institute for Subtropical Horticulture, which is part of the Indian Agricultural Research Institute.
By planting grapes in their gardens or fields, residents can enjoy the fruit’s natural sweetness and medicinal benefits after just a few years. The local production of fresh grapes will also lead to better pricing, benefitting both consumers and farmers.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Prime Minister Narendra Modi are committed to supporting this agricultural development, which promises to bring happiness to farmers through reasonable market prices.
Additionally, the Yogi government is offering substantial subsidies for agricultural equipment, as well as efficient irrigation systems like drip and sprinkler methods. Farmers are encouraged to take advantage of these resources to enhance their grape cultivation efforts. Beyond enjoying fresh grapes, there is also significant demand for processed grape products like juice, jam, jelly, and raisins, which are staples in every household.
Principal Scientist at the Central Institute for Subtropical Horticulture Sushil Kumar Shukla shared insights into the cultivation and benefits of ‘Flame Seedless’ grapes, a variety well-suited for Uttar Pradesh and the broader North Indian region.
According to Shukla, ‘Flame Seedless’ grapes assume a reddish hue when ripe, offering excellent sweetness and size. The fruit begins to appear in May and is typically harvested before the rainy season sets in.
With the support and guidance of CISH Director T Damodaran, the institute has successfully developed plants from mother grafts, which are available for interested individuals and farmers.
Shukla emphasised the potential for farmers to increase their income by adopting grape cultivation, a practice that can thrive across North India.
The optimal time to plant grapevines is during July and August, with winter being the ideal season for pruning. For best results in flowering and fruiting, he advises seeking expert guidance on proper pruning techniques.
Grape cultivation requires a strong scaffolding structure, with recommended spacing of three to three-and-a-half metres between plants and rows.
Farmers can also maximise their land use by growing short-duration crops like yam, turmeric, or arbi beneath the scaffolding, thereby boosting their overall income.
Flame Seedless grapes are not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients, including Vitamin C, potassium, and calcium. They contain flavonoids and antioxidants that help reduce inflammation, lower high blood pressure, and decrease the risk of heart diseases. The red variety of these grapes is particularly rich in antioxidants. The fibre in grapes aids digestion, relieves constipation, and promotes the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.
With a low glycemic index, grapes are also suitable for diabetics, as recommended by doctors. Additionally, they can help curb hunger, making them a useful aid in weight management, while also strengthening bones, boosting immunity, and improving sleep quality.
