Punjab: Bright, juicy, sweet, daisy popular among tangerine growers

Punjab: Daisy tangerine – a red-orange, shiny, sweet and juicy fruit – is gradually becoming popular among fruit growers, especially in the southwestern part of the state, widely known as the kinnow belt. Currently, Daisy tangerine is cultivated in 1,500 hectares in the state. The variety is a cross between the Fortune mandarin and Fremont mandarin varieties of California. Though the fruit was introduced in the state about two decades ago, the attempt at that time did not yield the desired results. However, in recent years, the fruit has gained popularity among growers and consumers. “Early harvesting period (from late October to mid-November), high and sweet juice content, and long shelf life are making Daisy tangerine a favourite among fruit growers.

I have grown this fruit in an orchard of 50 acres,” said Balwinder Singh Tikka, a recipient of the state award for the best citrus fruit orchard in Punjab. He said while other fully ripe citrus fruits like kinnow hit the market in December, Daisy tangerines reach the market almost two months earlier, fetching more than double the price. “Also, its input cost is low due to its early maturity, it requires less irrigation and fewer pesticides. Annual pruning of the plant is also easy. Due to its long shelf life, it is easy to export. It also does not require waxing while transporting within the country,” he said. Tikka said the Centre and states are offering subsidies and incentives for citrus cultivation to encourage diversification.

“We have four main juicy fruits in our state – kinnow, malta, mausami and daisy. However, once you taste daisy juice, you will drink it again and again. It does not require sugar or salt,” said Dr Harminder Singh, principal fruit scientist at Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Ludhiana. He said, “Besides, it fetches a good price, ripens early and thus less expenditure is required on irrigation and pesticides.” Dr Balwinder Singh, nodal officer for citrus fruits in the horticulture department, said, “Kinnow is cultivated on 46,000 hectares of land in the state, and daisy tangerine is cultivated on 1,500 hectares of land in the south-western part of the state and Hoshiarpur district. Some kinnow growers have already started daisy cultivation.”