New variety of fruit taking off in Ballari, India

Apple Ber, a new variety of horticultural fruit, is making inroads in the Ballari district, though in a small way. Perhaps it's because this is the first time that the new variety has been cultivated in the district.

The new variety boasts a larger size, is drought resistant, consumes less water and requires less insecticide and is sustainable in hot temperatures too, having a life of 20 years, while the yield is high.

Ravindra, who hitherto cultivated figs in Malapur village in Sirguppa taluk, chose to cultivate apple ber after being told by his friends and relatives in neighbouring Andhra Pradesh about its advantages.

“After my friends explained about the various advantages of the new variety and also that it fetches a good price, I ventured into it. I have planted 400 plants of the new variety in about six acres."

“Within six months, I have started harvesting fruits, on an average 20 kg-25 kg per plant, which should continue up to November this year. Being the first year, the yield will be low but it should double from the second year on. I am happy with my decision." he told The Hindu.

source: thehindu.com