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. In India the tree is predominantly grown in coastal Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Orissa, Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Propagated through seedlings, noni can be cultivated in all soil types though loamy soils are ideal.
No known pests
The tree is free from major pests and disease infestations. In case of any pest or infestations organic practices can be used to effectively control them. It can be ideally grown in tsunami affected coastal areas.
The ideal season for planting is June to October. About 290 seedlings are required for planting in an acre. The seedlings are to be planted at a spacing of about 12x 12 feet.
Moderate irrigation
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 the early stages of growth. Similar to other crops weeding has to be done manually as and when required.
Investment required
About Rs 29,000 is the investment required for planting and the crop yields an income of around Rs.22,500 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 5-15 kg. 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), ise promoting noni cultivation with an assured buy back arrangement of 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 www.nonifamily.net.
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