The exotic dragon fruit now grows in Dindigul
July 10, 2024 | The Hindu |
In Dindigul district, A. Susaimanickam from Velankannipuram successfully grows dragon fruits on his one-acre farm at Sirumalai's foothills. Transitioning from grapes due to low profits and high maintenance, Susaimanickam started cultivating dragon fruits two years ago. Inspired by YouTube videos, his family planted 4,000 saplings using trellis and ring-type planting methods, leading to a ₹80,000 profit in the first year.
With initial expenses around ₹6 lakh, 2,000 saplings now yield about 20 kg of fruit each. They sell dragon fruits for ₹160-₹200 per kg locally and in markets. The cactus, being drought-resistant and low-maintenance, requires minimal labor and infrequent drip irrigation.
Despite some challenges with ant infestations, the family manages the farm largely independently, only needing occasional labor for initial setup and manure application. The plants are expected to yield fruit for fifteen years.
Despite the exotic fruit status preventing bank loans, they received a government subsidy and praise from the Horticulture department. Susaimanickam hopes more farmers will adopt dragon fruit cultivation due to its profitability and low maintenance.
Read more
Viewed Articles
July 10, 2024 | The Hindu | In Dindigul district, A. Susaimanickam from Velankannipuram successfully grows dragon fruits on his one-acre farm at Sirumalai's foothills. Transitioning from grapes du
Read More
November 18, 2025 | Jamaica Information Service | The devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa, Jamaicans can still purchase coconut water from the Coconut Industry Board (CIB) in Kingston. CIB Chief E
November 11, 2025 | Taipei Times | Taiwan-grown kiwifruit are more expensive than imported ones due to their limited supply, but they are valued for their sweetness and delicate texture. According to
September 24, 2025 | The Daily Star | Bangladesh’s mango exports rebounded in 2025, reaching 2,194 tons, a 66 percent rise from last year’s 1,321 tons. Improved fruit quality and better compliance wit
January 08, 2026 | IPB University | Rambutan, traditionally abundant at year’s end, has become scarce, prompting public concern. According to Prof. Sobir, a tropical fruit expert from IPB University,
December 23, 2025 | ABC News | Despite rain-delayed harvests and uneven yields across regions, Queensland lychees are delivering exceptional quality this summer, according to wholesalers and growers.
