Indian Pomelo Cultivation: Expanding Citrus Harvest for Health, Wealth, and Increased Consumption
In the rich and diverse horticultural landscape of India, a new star is on the rise - the pomelo (Citrus maxima). Known by various regional names, such as Chakotra in Hindi or Batabi Lebu in Bengali, this citrus giant is prized for its thick rind, juicy pulp, and mildly sweet taste.
Pomelo thrives in tropical and subtropical climates, with temperatures ranging between 25°C to 32°C. The ideal soil for pomelo cultivation is well-drained, sandy loam or alluvial soils with a pH ranging from 5.5 to 7.5.
When it comes to propagation, pomelo offers several methods. While seed propagation is simple and commonly used, air layering and budding provide genetically identical trees that fruit earlier and more reliably. Air layering allows growing a new tree from a branch while still attached to the parent, ensuring the new plant is genetically identical to the parent. This method promotes faster establishment of a mature tree and earlier fruiting.
Budding, or grafting, is another effective method. By combining desirable traits of rootstocks (such as disease resistance or soil adaptability) with selected pomelo varieties, this technique results in uniform trees with predictable fruit quality. It is preferred in commercial orchards for consistent yield and vigor.
As demand for pomelo grows in local and export markets, this fruit is not just a refreshing addition to our diets but also a valuable source in juices, salads, desserts, and traditional medicine. Rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and dietary fiber, pomelo is a nutritious choice for health-conscious consumers.
The planting season for pomelo is usually at the onset of the monsoon (June to August) or during the cooler months (September to February). With the right combination of climate, care, and market linkage, pomelo can become a fruitful addition to India's horticultural landscape.
For farmers considering pomelo cultivation, investing in quality planting material, proper orchard management, and sustainable practices is key. Integrated pest management (IPM) is often recommended to reduce chemical dependency and maintain plant health. Common citrus pests like aphids, citrus psylla, leaf miners, mealybugs, and fungal diseases such as gummosis and leaf spot can affect pomelo trees.
First published on July 2, 2025, at 17:13 IST, this article aims to shed light on the promising potential of pomelo cultivation in India. Native to Southeast Asia, pomelo is increasingly grown in India due to its adaptability and high market potential. With growing consumer awareness about health and nutrition, the demand for antioxidant-rich fruits like pomelo is steadily rising.
References: [1] Helliwell, S. (2020). Pomelo Propagation. Horticulture Review. [2] Nair, P. R., & Rao, N. R. (2019). Citrus Cultivation in India. National Horticulture Board. [3] Kumar, R., & Rao, S. (2023). Integrated Pest Management in Citrus Cultivation. Journal of Pest Management. [4] Singh, A. K., & Sharma, R. (2024). Rootstocks for Citrus Cultivation in India. Citrus Research. [5] Gupta, S., & Mishra, A. (2025). Air Layering in Pomelo Propagation. Citrus Journal.
Science highlights the growing popularity of pomelo cultivation in India, with the tropical fruit becoming a valuable source for health-and-wellness enthusiasts. Rich in vitamins C, antioxidants, and dietary fiber, this citrus giant is not just a refreshing addition to food-and-drink options but also an essential nutritional component in a healthy lifestyle.
