Lemons are a popular fruit due to its list of health benefits and usefulness in the kitchen. This hardy citrus fruit is usually not consumed in the natural form, but can be used in juices, sauces, sweet and savory dishes and other beverages. Lemon farming is a lucrative agribusiness that only a small number of farmers has tapped. They have high demand both in the local and export markets.
With more emphasis on value addition and on increasing number of juice makers, lemon farmers have a myriad of opportunities. They are an essential source of Vitamin C, are highly nutritious, and have a wide range of health benefits. Commercial lime farming is a very easy and profitable farming business, and many people around the world are already doing this type of business.
Site Selection
Lime plants can grow in all types of soils. But light soils having a good drainage system are most suitable for commercial lime farming. The pH range of the soil should be between 5.5 and 7.5. The lime plants can also grow in slightly alkaline and acidic soils. Preparing the soil perfectly before planting is very important. Plough, cross plough and level the land properly. Add as much organic contents as you can while preparing the soil.
Planting
Planting of a lime plant is generally done at the afternoon when sunlight is reduced. Water the plants immediately after planting. Keep 4.5 x 4.5 meter spacing between the plants. Dig pits of size 60 x 60 x 60 cm for planting seedlings. Apply 10kg of farmyard manure and 500g of single super phosphate to the pits while planting.
Fertilizing
The lime plants are heavy feeders. They require both organic and chemical fertilizers for better growth and maximum production. Apply well decomposed cow dung at the rate of 5 to 20kg per tree when the age of the plant is between 1 and 3 years. Apply Urea at the rate of 100 – 300 grams per tree.
Yield
Yield is generally low during the initial years. You can expect between 50 and 60 fruits per tree in their 2 – 3 years. Production increase as the plants age and you can expect good production from their 8th years of age. Average production is around 700 fruits per tree after stabilization.
WANT TO START A SUCCESSFUL LIME/LEMON FRUIT FARMING OPERATION? YOU WILL NEED A PROFESSIONAL AND WELL – STRUCTURED FARMING BUSINESS PLAN. CONTACT US NOW FOR PROFESSIONAL HELP AT: (27) 84 583 3143 or email: money@global.co.za
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