21 Profitable Fruit Crops in India: Low-investment and High-returns

India is blessed with a diverse climate, allowing it to grow a wide range of fruits. Not only are these fruits delicious, but they are also highly nutritious and good for your health. Unfortunately, not all fruit crops are profitable. Some are more difficult to grow than others, and some yield less fruit. This makes them less profitable for farmers. In this blog post, we learn about 21 of India’s most profitable fruit crops. These fruits are relatively easy to grow and yield a high return, making them ideal for small-scale farmers.

21 profitable fruit crops in India

1. Mango

This fruit is one of the most popular fruits grown in India, which requires low investment. They are delicious, nutritious, and easy to grow. Mangoes are a low-investment crop that can yield high returns. With proper care and management, a mango tree can produce fruit for up to 25 to 30 years.

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Mangoes require little water and can be grown in many different soil types. They are relatively pest-and disease-resistant. Mangoes are best suited for tropical climates but can also be grown in subtropical regions with some protection from the elements. Mango trees can be started from seed, but purchasing young plants from a nursery is more common.

It takes about 3 to 5 years for a mango tree to begin bearing fruit. Once established, a mango tree will bear fruit for many years with proper care. Mangoes can be eaten fresh, used in cooked dishes, or processed into juices and other products. The export market for mangoes is growing rapidly, so there is good potential for farmers to sell their fruit on the international market.

2. Banana

Bananas are the most popular fruits and have high demand in India. They are delicious, nutritious, and easy to find. In addition, bananas are a low-investment crop, requiring relatively little money to grow and harvest. You can start growing bananas with just a few hundred rupees. Assuming you have a small piece of land (around 500 square feet), here is what you will need to get started:

1. Banana saplings – You can purchase these from a local nursery or online. Make sure to get disease-resistant varieties that are suited to your climate.
2. Fertile soil – Bananas prefer well-drained, loamy soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. If your soil is not ideal, you can amend it with compost or manure.
3. Water – Bananas need lots of water, especially flowering and fruiting. Therefore, it is better to install a drip irrigation system to ensure your plants get enough water without wasting any.

Your banana plants will start bearing fruit in about 18 months with proper care. Each plant will produce around 20 to 25 kg of bananas per year, which you can sell at the market for Rs 10 to12 per kg. Each plant can earn you Rs 200 to 300 per year! Over time, as your plants mature and produce more fruit, your earnings will increase significantly. 

3. Cantaloupe

Cantaloupes are one of the most popular and profitable fruit crops in India. They are easy to grow and require very little investment. Cantaloupes have a high water content, which makes them ideal for growing in hot, humid climates. They are also relatively disease-resistant. Cantaloupes are best grown in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. They should be planted in full sun and given ample space to spread out.

Cantaloupes are typically ready for harvest 75 to 85 days after planting. Once harvested, cantaloupes, you may store them for 1 to 2 weeks. After that, they should be refrigerated to prolong their shelf life. Cantaloupes can be eaten fresh or used in various recipes, including salads, smoothies, soups, and more.

4. Raspberry

Raspberry is a highly profitable fruit crop in India. It requires low investment and gives high returns. Raspberry is a rich source of antioxidants and vitamins, which makes it an excellent choice for health-conscious consumers. The demand for raspberry is increasing rapidly due to its health benefits. Raspberry cultivation is relatively easy and does not require special skills or knowledge.

It can be grown in any soil, but the ideal soil type is sandy loam with good drainage. The plant prefers warm weather and full sun exposure. However, it can also tolerate partial shade. The average yield of raspberry per hectare in India is about 17 tonnes. The fruit has a shelf life of 2 to 3 days and can be transported long distances without damage. Raspberry is a highly profitable crop and offers excellent returns for growers. With the right conditions and care, it can be an extremely rewarding crop to grow.

5. Indian Ber/Jujube

The Indian ber, also known as the jujube, is a small fruit native to India. The fruit is red and has a sweet taste. Indian berry is a popular ingredient in many Indian dishes, such as curries and desserts. Drying the fruit allows it to be stored for extended periods. Indian berries can be used in many ways, such as jams, jellies, or pies. The dried form of the fruit can also be used as decoration on cakes or other desserts.

6. Amla/Indian Gooseberry

Amla, or Indian Gooseberry, is a popular fruit in India that is known for its high nutritional value. Amla is rich in Vitamin C and contains other important vitamins and minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, iron, and carotene. The fruit is often used in Ayurvedic medicine due to its health benefits. Amla can be grown in a variety of climates but prefers warm weather. It can be grown in dry and wet soils but is best in well-drained soil.

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Amla trees are generally drought-resistant, but young trees must be watered regularly for the first few years after planting. The trees can be propagated from seed or cuttings and usually begin bearing fruit after 3 to 4 years. Amla fruits are typically harvested from December to February. The fruits can be eaten fresh or processed into jams, jellies, or pickles. Amla juice is also popular; the fruits can be dried and used as a natural sweetener or added to tea.

7. Watermelon

These are summer fruits usually grown in the month of Feb-March in India, and for a good reason! Not only are they delicious, and also relatively easy to grow and can be quite profitable. If you’re thinking of growing watermelons, remember a few things. First, must make sure you have enough space. Watermelons can take up a lot of room, so you’ll need a large garden or field.

Second, you’ll need to water them regularly. Watermelons are thirsty plants that need plenty of water to produce good fruit. Finally, you’ll need to be patient. Watermelons can take a long time to mature, so don’t expect to see results overnight. If you follow these tips, you should have no trouble growing delicious and profitable watermelons!

8. Orange

Orange is one of the most popular and profitable fruit crops in India. The total production of oranges in India is around 1.5 million tonnes, and the total area under cultivation is about 1 lakh hectares. The major orange-producing states in India are Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Gujarat. Orange cultivation requires a warm and humid climate with well-distributed yearly rainfall. The ideal temperature for orange cultivation is 20-25 degree Celsius.

The soil requirements for orange cultivation are deep, well-drained sandy loams with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. Orange trees can be grown successfully on a wide range of soils, provided they are well-drained. Irrigation is an important requirement for successful orange cultivation as the crop is highly susceptible to water stress at various stages of its growth cycle. Orange trees should be watered regularly during summer to avoid drought stress.

The most common varieties of oranges grown in India are Blood Red, Jaffa, Navel, and Valencia. The recommended spacing for planting orange trees is 8 meters x 8 meters or 10 meters x 10 meters. Planting density can vary from 150 to 200 plants per hectare depending upon the rootstock used and soil fertility status.

9. Fig/Anjeer

Figs are delicious and nutritious fruit that can be enjoyed fresh, dried, or canned. They are an excellent source of fiber and antioxidants and have numerous health benefits. Figs are relatively easy to grow and require little care once established. With proper care, a fig tree can produce fruit for many years. Figs are native to the Mediterranean region and have been cultivated for thousands of years.

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Fig trees are well-suited to warm climates and will not tolerate frost. In India, figs grow best in the northern states such as Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, and Punjab. The most common type of fig variety grown in India is the Common Fig (Ficus carica). This variety typically has greenish-brown skin and pink flesh. Common figs can be eaten fresh or dried and are often used in jams, jellies, and other preserves.

Another popular variety of figs in India is the Anjeer, which has dark purple skin and reddish-brown flesh. Anjeer fruits are often used in desserts due to its sweetness. Fig trees can be started from seedlings or cuttings. Once planted, they require little care other than regular watering during dry periods. Fertilize your fig tree twice a year with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth and encourage fruiting. Prune your tree annually to remove any dead or diseased branches.

10. Pineapple

Pineapple is one of the most profitable fruit crops to grow. Pineapples are relatively easy to grow and require very little investment. They are also high, with a single plant yielding up to 200 pineapples annually. Pineapples are a tropical fruit and therefore require a warm climate to thrive. They can be grown both in open fields and under shade. Pineapples need well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.

The best time to plant pineapples is during the monsoon season when the soil is most moist and fertility is high. Pineapple plants take around 18 months to mature and begin bearing fruit. Once the plants start bearing fruit, they will continue to do so for 3 to 4 years. Pineapples can be harvested all year round, although the peak season for harvesting is from March to June. A single pineapple plant can yield between 50 to 200 fruits annually, making it a highly lucrative crop for farmers.

11. Strawberry

Strawberry is one of the most popular and profitable fruits in India. It requires low investment and gives high returns. Strawberry cultivation is done in well-drained, sandy loam soils with good organic matter content. The crop is grown as a perennial in temperate regions and as an annual in tropical and subtropical regions. The main strawberry varieties grown in India are Chandler, Selva, Festival, Allstar, Fort Laramie, and Florida Radiance.

Strawberry plants are propagated by runners or by tissue culture. Runner’s cultivars are also available. Planting is generally done from October-November in northern India and February-March in southern India. Strawberry plants need to be regularly watered during the fruiting season. They also require regular fertilization and pest control measures. Harvesting of strawberries begins from February onwards and continues till May-June. The average yield of strawberries from one hectare of land ranges from 8 to10 tonnes.

12. Jackfruit

This fruit is known for its delicious taste and nutritional value. It is a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, a good choice for people looking to improve their health. Moreover, jackfruit is relatively easy to grow and does not require a lot of investment, making it a highly profitable crop for farmers.

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13. Papaya

Papaya is one of the most popular and profitable fruits in India. It is a low-investment crop with high returns. Papaya requires very little care and can be grown in any soil. It has a short growing season and Papaya fruits can be harvested within 4 to 5 months of planting. Papaya is rich in vitamins and minerals and has numerous health benefits. Papaya fruit is an excellent source of Vitamin C and contains Vitamins A, E, and K. Papaya is also a good source of fiber, potassium, and magnesium.

Papaya can also be used in a variety of dishes. It can be eaten fresh, made into juices or smoothies, or used in salads or desserts. Papaya is also popularly used as an ingredient in traditional Indian medicines. The global demand for papaya is constantly increasing, making it a lucrative crop for farmers in India. With proper management and marketing, papaya farming can be highly profitable.

14. Grapefruit

Grapefruit is an excellent choice for a profitable fruit crop in India. It requires very little investment and has the potential to yield high returns. The fruit is rich in vitamins and minerals and has many health benefits. It is also popular for juicing and can be used in many different recipes.

15. Lemon

Lemon is one of the most profitable fruit crops in India. It requires low investment and gives high returns. Lemon is widely used in Ayurveda, culinary, and industrial applications. Lemon is a citrus fruit that grows on trees. The scientific name of lemon is Citrus limon. Lemons are round or oval and have a yellow or greenish-yellow color. They are acidic in taste and have a strong smell.  

Lemons are grown in many parts of India, such as Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana. Lemon cultivation does not require much investment. The tree can be grown quickly from seeds or cuttings. The main cost incurred in cultivation is for irrigation and fertilizer. The average yield of lemon per tree is about 40 to 50 kg. Fresh lemons are sold at Rs 10-15/kg, while processed lemons are sold at Rs 25 to 30/kg. Thus, a farmer can earn an annual income of Rs 400 to 750 per tree from lemon cultivation.

16.Dragon Fruit/Pitaya

Dragon fruit, also called pitaya, is a tropical fruit that originally belongs to South America. The pitaya is round or oval and has bright pink or red skin. The flesh of the dragon fruit is white, yellow, orange, or pink and contains black seeds. Dragon fruit is high in antioxidants and vitamins C and B. It also contains iron, calcium, and phosphorus.

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This fruit can be eaten fresh or used in juices, smoothies, and desserts. The dragon fruit can also be dried and used as a decoration or ingredient in recipes. Dragon fruit grows best in warm climates with high humidity. The plant requires well-drained soil and full sun exposure. Dragon fruit can be propagated from seeds or cuttings.

17. Tamarind

Tamarind is a tropical tree that is native to Africa. The fruit of the tamarind tree is an oblong, brown pod that contains a sour pulp. Tamarind is used worldwide in many cuisines, including Indian, Thai, and Chinese. The tamarind fruit pulp makes various dishes, including curries, chutneys, and sauces. Tamarind is also used to make candy and drinks. The tamarind tree grows best in tropical climates with high humidity and rainfall.

Tamarind trees can be found in India, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Pakistan. In India, tamarind trees are grown in the states of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, and Bihar. Tamarind trees are evergreen trees that can grow up to 20 meters tall. The tamarind tree leaves are compound leaves with 10-20 leaflets.

The flowers of the tamarind tree are small and white with five petals. The fruit of the tamarind tree is an oblong brown pod that contains a sour pulp. Each pod can contain up to 12 seeds. The tamarind fruit pulp is used to make various dishes, including curries, chutneys, and sauces. Tamarind is also used to make candy and drinks.

18. Jamun

Jamun is a common fruit tree in India and one of the most profitable fruit trees to grow. Jamun can be grown in most parts of India, requiring very little investment. The tree can yield up to 150 kg of fruits per season if planted from seedlings. 1 kg of Jamun of fruit can sell for up to Rs 150. The best time to plant a Jamun tree is during the monsoon season, as the rains will help the tree to thrive. It takes around 3 to 4 years for a Jamun tree to start bearing fruit, so patience is key when growing this crop.

Once the Jamun tree begins bearing fruit, it will continue for many years. Jamun fruits are small and round and have a deep purple color. The taste of Jamun is similar to that of a grape, with a slightly acidic flavor. The Jamun fruits are often used to make jams, jellies, juices, and wines. If you are looking for a profitable fruit crop to grow in India, then Jamun is undoubtedly worth considering. With its low investment costs and high potential returns, Jamun is an excellent choice for anyone looking to make money from fruit farming.

19. Coconut

Coconut is one of the most popular fruits in India. Coconut is also one of the most profitable fruit crops grown throughout the year in India. Coconut cultivation requires very little investment and gives high returns. Coconut can be grown in any soil but prefers well-drained, sandy soils. It can be grown in both humid and semi-arid climates. The coconut tree is a hardy plant that withstands strong winds and heavy rains. The yield from a coconut tree depends on the tree’s age, variety, and growing conditions.

A full-grown coconut tree can yield up to 100 to 150 fruits annually. The main markets for coconuts are Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, and Hyderabad. These cities have a tremendous demand for coconuts due to their large population and lack of availability of fresh coconuts. Coconut cultivation is a low-investment, high-return business venture that anyone can start with minimal investment. With proper care and management, a coconut farm can be highly profitable.

20. Guava

Guava is one of the most profitable fruit crops in India. It requires meager investment and gives high returns. Guava is a native of the Indian subcontinent and has been cultivated in India since ancient times. Guava is a popular fruit in India and is widely consumed in fresh juices, jams, and jellies. Guava cultivation does not require much land and can be done even on marginal lands. Guava trees are relatively easy to grow and care for.

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They are drought-resistant and can thrive in a wide range of soil types. Guava trees start bearing fruits from the second year onwards and continue to bear fruits for many years. A single tree can yield up to 200 kg of fruits per year. The demand for guavas is always high in the market due to their excellent taste and nutritional value. Guavas are rich in vitamins A, C, and E and minerals such as potassium, iron, and calcium.

They also contain dietary fiber, which makes them beneficial for digestive health. Guavas can be grown throughout the year except in extremely cold climates. The best time to plant guava trees is during the rains to get sufficient water during the initial stages of growth. Guava cultivation requires minimal input costs and can be easily managed by small farmers and even individual households.

21. Kinnow

The Kinnow is a citrus fruit that is native to India and Pakistan. It is a hybrid of the mandarin orange and the pomelo. The fruit is oval and has thin, yellow skin. The fruit’s flesh is juicy and sweet, with a sour taste. The Kinnow is an essential crop in India and Pakistan and is grown extensively in both countries. The Kinnow is a very popular fruit with high demand in domestic and international markets. The fruit is used in many ways, including juices, jams, jellies, marmalades, ice creams, and sherbets.

Kinnow is also an ingredient in many dishes, such as curries and desserts. The Kinnow season begins in November and ends in February. The peak season for fruit is from December to January. The fruits are harvested by hand and transported to markets or processing units. The crop yield depends on various factors, such as the variety of trees, climatic conditions, soil type, irrigation facilities, etc. However, each tree average yields about 100 to 150 kg of fruits annually.

Conclusion

Fruit crops are an excellent option for Indian farmers looking to maximize profits. With a relatively low investment and high returns, these 21 fruit crops are worth considering. From mangoes and coconuts to litchis and pomegranates, there is something on this list for everyone. With high-density cultivation practices, you can achieve more profits. So what are you waiting for? Start planting fruits today. If you live in the following states of India and plan to grow fruit crops, this post content is useful for understanding the basics of profitable fruit farming.

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