Pomegranate is a fruit bearing tree which is widely cultivated on commercial basis in Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Uttar Pradesh. It is mostly seen in Maharashtra, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. It is known as ‘dadim’ in Sanskrit and ‘anar’ in Hindi. Punicagranatum is the scientific name of pomegranate. It is also known as ‘Ruman’ fruit. There are usually 2 varieties of pomegranate in India; red and white. The white ones have softer seeds and sweeter juice.
The climate of Kerala is conducive for farming pomegranates. However the production and yield are better in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Maharashtra. The farming process begins with the planting of saplings. Make sure to buy saplings from government nurseries or government accredited nurseries.
The hole to plant the sapling should measure 75x75x75. The saplings should have minimum 4 metres gap between them. In each of these holes, fill a mixture of 15-20 kgs of cow dung powder, or compost with top soil. Commence farming with the onset of monsoon. After the saplings start growing, fertilize them with bio manure, preferably 3 times a year. Irrigation is compulsory when it doesn’t rain. If mulching has been done on summer season, then the amount of water can be lessened. Do not let too many branches grow. Leave some 4-5 branches and cut off the others. Once the shrub has reached 6-7 feet of height, the branch ends can be trimmed. The tree will remain in shape, and this shall also help in better growth of branches. Organic pesticides can be used to drive away pests. It also sustains the fertility of the tree.
When pomegranates turn ripe, it often cracks. To avoid this, the fruit has to be wrapped. Wrapping the fruit also gives it deeper shade of red. This also helps in saving the fruit from pests and mottled skin. Such pomegranates get more price in market.
Pomegranate has protein, magnesium, fat, starch, calcium, nicotinic acid, Vitamins A,C,E,D, Potassium, folic acids and anti-oxidants.The punico tannin acid in its root and tannic in the husk and skin give health benefits to pomegranate.
The husk of pomegranate, in powdered form or otherwise, can be mixed in buttermilk and drank for treating dysentery. Powdered husk mixed in water makes a good medicine for driving away intestinal worms. The husk is also used in making of Ayurvedic potions. Make a hole at the top of a pomegranate and pour almond oil into it. After two hours, the fruit will absorb all the oil. Eating this shall cure chronic breathing difficulty and cough. Consuming pomegranate daily will keep ulcers away. Pomegranate juice increases the production of testosterone which will boost memory and energy levels. It will also make bones and muscles stronger. It also renders a profoundness in voice. Pomegranate is best for increasing blood production. It can cure skin diseases up to a certain limit. Pomegranates are excellent for stronger body and better immunity. There is hardly any other fruit with so many vitamins and proteins. Skin, fruit, seed and leaves have health benefits.it helps in digestion as well.
