Udupi farmer makes Rs 3 lakh per kilogram of mangoes from his terrace garden

Mangalore Today News Network

Udupi, May 17, 2024: A farmer from Shankarapura in Udupi is reportedly earning an impressive Rs 3 lakh per kilogram for his mangoes.

Joseph Lobo, the innovative farmer, has successfully grown Miyazaki mangoes, one of the world’s most expensive varieties. Cultivated in his terrace garden, these mangoes are highly valued for their taste and medicinal properties, fetching prices between Rs 2.5 lakh and Rs 3 lakh per kilogram.

 

Lobo, an expert in landscaping and farm rejuvenation, says "The Miyazaki mango, a prized Japanese variety, is being cultivated by several farmers in India. Its high market value is attributed to its exceptional taste and medicinal benefits."

He noted that while the size of the Miyazaki mangoes in his garden is similar to the "Mallika" variety, their taste is comparable to Mallika, though the latter is generally considered more delicious.

Lobo explained that the fruit is purple when unripe and turns flaming red when fully ripe in Japan. In the coastal area, the color varies due to humidity and salinity. "I am confident that the color quality will improve in future harvests," he said, acknowledging the impact of geographical conditions on fruit characteristics.

Lobo planted a Miyazaki mango sapling three years ago. Last year, the blossoms failed to develop into fruits despite flowering. This year, about seven fruits appeared, but unfavorable weather conditions posed a challenge again. Lobo mentioned that fruiting is negatively impacted by rainfall in January.

In addition to Miyazaki mangoes, Lobo has diversified his terrace garden with exotic fruits like white Java plum, Brazilian cherries, and Taiwan oranges, inspired by their successful cultivation in Gulf countries. Although not driven by commercial interests, he sells grafted plants and grows various species, including Shankarapura jasmine.