The geographical conditions of Rajasthan may not provide great scope for growing exotic fruits. However, many innovations and farming techniques have been a valuable addition to Rajasthan’s land. This has been through the great wear and sweat of the farmers. Fertile land despite being an arid land, good irrigation, and use of fertilizers are some value additions.
Naturally, it is not possible to grow exotic fruits in a dry state like Rajasthan. The semi-arid land and fairly hot and extreme temperatures are not very favorable. Fruits are juicy, full of citrus and water. Similarly, fruits and Rajasthan may appear to be antonyms in a farming dictionary!
But there are certain exotic fruits that have found favorable growing conditions in Rajasthan, without any water. And you might want to gulp them in this hot temperate weather. Read about these exotic fruits here!
Dragon fruit (Pitaya)
Dragon fruit is a subtropical plant that needs very little water to survive. It grows in a warm and humid climate. The cactus plant is its growing partner. It is a subtropical plant that requires a minimum of six to eight hours of sunlight each day. If your house has enough exposure to sunlight, you can be adventurous and grow these at your place.
Nutritional value: Helps in fighting chronic diseases, strengthening immunity system, boosts low iron levels
Kinnow (Mandarin Hybrid)
Native to Pakistan, and later moving to Punjab, Kinnow belongs to the orange family. Even though kinnow can be stored in room temperatures, the growing conditions are pretty different. It is a fruit that is acquainted with hot and arid areas. The warmer the region is, the thicker the peel is and better the yield
Nutritional value: Rich in Vitamin C, acts as anti-ageing, helpful in chronic constipation
Bael (Wood Apple)
It is safe to call Bael as a versatile exotic fruit. It requires a balance between a monsoon climate with a dry season. These trees can grow in a wide variety of soils. However, like an exotic fruit, it does have its needs. It needs a well-drained, sandy soil for healthy growth and wholesome yield. The name wood apple comes from it’s resemblance to apples. Its hard fruit shell earned it the name wood apple.
Nutritional value: Good for digestion, cures digestive problems like dysentery, diarrhea and constipation
Dates
Dates are the perfect example of exotic fruits. Vaguely known for its origin in Iraq and/or Egypt, dates were used to make wine back then. Cultivation is done in arid and semi-arid regions. Long summer days, humid weather and absence of rainfall are the characteristics that define its growing conditions.
Nutritional value: Rich in fiber, vitamins and minerals, cuts pain during labor days of the mother, energy booster
Olives
Olives are originally from Eastern Mediterranean Europe. Normally, olive cultivation requires a warm climate and subtropical conditions to grow. However, an important point to note is that it shouldn’t be prolonged with hot dry spells. Irregular watering is suggested so that the fruit retains its juice.
Nutritional value: Acts as an antioxidant, plays an important role in reversing obesity, rich in Vitamin E
Follow Rajasthan Studio on Instagram for more amazing art and travel content. Reach out to us on email at contact[at]rajasthanstudio[dot]com. This blog is curated by Rajasthan Studio and written by Prathana Asiia.
