Pune: In Saswad (Purandar Taluka), progressive farmers Vilas Jagtap and Rekha Jagtap have successfully cultivated a Bhagwa variety pomegranate orchard, generating an annual yield of 22-25 tons. Through scientific farming methods and efficient fertilizer management, they have achieved a net profit of ₹18 to ₹19 lakh per year.
In 2003, under the guidance of his late father, Gangadhar Bandoba Jagtap, Vilas Jagtap planted 700 Bhagwa pomegranate saplings over two to two-and-a-quarter acres. By employing fungicides and insecticides, they have effectively prevented pest infestations, ensuring high-quality fruit production.
Currently, each pomegranate tree produces 50-60 kg of fruit, which is sold in the Mumbai and Vashi markets at a price range of ₹120-₹200 per kg. The wide spacing of 13x13 ft between saplings allows for tractor-assisted pesticide spraying and better air circulation, which has significantly improved crop health and longevity.
Key Scientific Practices That Led to Success:
Organic Fertilization: Use of farmyard manure, compost, superphosphate, and Thimet to strengthen saplings.
Drip Irrigation System: Ensures optimal water usage and conservation.
Weed Control: Use of mulching paper to prevent weed growth.
Organic Growth Boosters: Application of cow dung and cow urine slurry for better plant growth.
Plant Health Maintenance: Use of Green Harvest fertilizers enriched with micro-nutrients for optimal yield.
Disease-Free Orchard for 34 Years
The Jagtap family follows strict orchard management practices, ensuring pomegranate trees remain free from "Telya" (bacterial blight disease). While this disease has troubled pomegranate growers across Maharashtra, their farm has remained unaffected for 34 years.
This success is attributed to meticulous planning, advanced farming techniques, and expert guidance. Vilas Jagtap acknowledges that the mentorship of veteran farmers such as late Bapusahib Bokil and Appasaheb Purandare played a crucial role in achieving consistent high yields.
