Thanks to scientists, now one can feast on litchis, hitherto a summer fruit, even in winter. Possible, thanks to a successful experiment in two southern states by the Bihar-based National Research Centre for Litchi (NRCL), an official said.
Reportedly, NRCL recorded a bumper production of litchis in different orchards in Karnatka and Kerala this winter; result of a five-year-long experiment by NRCL scientists. After the success, the NRCL is now scouting for new areas for litchi cultivation in the country.
This is not the first time litchis have been harvested in the two states but what stands out this time is the quantum and the quality. Nearly 700 acres of land are currently under litchi cultivation in two southern states. There are some 40 litchi trees in each acre of land, with each tree yielding 1.5 to 2 quintals of the fruit.
Reportedly, the climate and other conditions were favorable for litchi cultivation during winter in the two states. The plants start flowering in September and fruit starts maturing in December and this continues till January.
The harvesting season in the northern states runs from April to July.
Reportedly, the climate and other conditions were favorable for litchi cultivation during winter in the two states. The plants start flowering in September and fruit starts maturing in December and this continues till January.
The harvesting season in the northern states runs from April to July.
