In a small village in Uttar Pradesh, as the first rays of sunlight touched the dew-covered leaves, farmer Ramprasad walked toward his fields with quiet pride. Just three years ago, he was stuck in the traditional cycle of wheat and sugarcane farming. The effort was heavy, the investment constant, and the profit uncertain. Payments from sugar mills were often delayed, and expenses kept rising.
Today, however, his land tells a different story. Bright red strawberries spread across the field like a carpet of jewels. His strawberry farm has not only transformed his own life but has also become an example for neighboring farmers searching for better opportunities.
The Changing Face of Strawberries Farming
Strawberries farming in India is no longer limited to regions like Mahabaleshwar or Nainital. Farmers in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, and even parts of Rajasthan are adopting this high-value crop. The shift is driven by one simple fact: strawberries offer faster returns and better profit margins compared to many traditional crops.
On his strawberry farm, Ramprasad uses drip irrigation and plastic mulching techniques. The raised beds covered with mulch sheets help retain soil moisture and prevent weed growth. The drip system confirms that water reaches directly to the roots without wastage.
However, as the harvesting season approaches and fruits begin to ripen, irrigation management becomes important. When the fruits start turning red, irrigation should be reduced. Too much water at this stage can make the berries watery, reduce sweetness, and even cause fungal diseases. Controlled watering improves flavor, firmness, and shelf life.
Varieties That Bring Sweet Success
Agricultural research institutions and private seed companies have introduced strawberry varieties suitable for Indian plains. Popular varieties include Winter Dawn, Camarosa, Sweet Charlie, and Chandler.
Ramprasad has planted Sweet Charlie on his strawberry farm. This variety is known for its deep red color, sweetness, and early maturity. According to him, “As soon as my strawberries reach the market, buyers are drawn by their color and shine.” Last season, he sold his produce at wholesale prices reaching up to ₹150 per kilogram.
Profit Potential for Farmers
Strawberries farming offers consistent income during the harvesting period. Unlike sugarcane, where income may come once a year and often after delays, strawberries are harvested every two to three days during peak season. Payments are quicker, especially when farmers sell directly to retailers or consumers.
On one acre, the cost of cultivation ranges between ₹80,000 and ₹1,00,000, depending on inputs and infrastructure. Expected revenue can range from ₹3,00,000 to ₹3,50,000 under good management. This margin is attracting young farmers who are eager to experiment with modern horticulture.
Challenges Along the Way
Despite its profitability, strawberries farming comes with challenges. Strawberries are delicate and highly perishable. Once harvested, they must be stored in cool conditions. Without refrigeration, they can lose freshness within a day.
Unexpected rainfall during fruiting can damage crops. Excess humidity encourages fungal infections. This is why reducing irrigation during fruit ripening and maintaining proper drainage is essential. Timely spraying of recommended fungicides and maintaining field hygiene can minimize risks.
The Role of Modern Technology
Ramprasad attended training sessions at his local Krishi Vigyan Kendra. There, he learned soil testing, nutrient management, and pest control techniques. He plans to install a polyhouse to extend his growing season. Polyhouse cultivation allows earlier harvesting, protects plants from harsh weather, and reduces pest attacks.
Some advanced farmers are even exploring hydroponic strawberry cultivation, where plants grow in nutrient-rich water instead of soil. This method saves space and water while increasing yield.
Marketing and Branding
Marketing plays a key role in the success of a strawberry farm. Ramprasad supplies directly to city supermarkets and hotels. He created a brand name, “Lal Sona,” meaning red gold. Good packaging and branding help him earn better prices.
He also practices “U-pick” farming, where families from nearby cities visit the farm, pick strawberries themselves, and pay per kilogram. This agritourism approach increases profit and builds customer trust.
Women’s Participation
Women play an important role in his strawberry farm. Strawberry harvesting requires gentle handling, and women workers excel in careful picking and grading. Around fifteen women from the village now work regularly on the farm, contributing to their household incomes.
Processing and Value Addition
Ramprasad plans to start a small processing unit to produce strawberry jam, syrup, and squash. Value addition increases profit margins and reduces post-harvest losses. His son, who studied engineering, now helps manage online sales and digital marketing. They are exploring direct-to-consumer delivery models through online platforms.
Consumer Awareness: How to Wash Strawberries
As strawberry consumption increases, consumers often ask how to wash strawberries properly. The best method is simple:
First, rinse strawberries gently under cold running water just before eating. Do not soak them for long, as they absorb water and lose flavor. Remove the green tops only after washing to prevent water from entering the fruit. For extra cleaning, you can soak them briefly in a mixture of water and a little vinegar, then rinse again with clean water. Pat them dry with a soft cloth or paper towel.
Proper washing maintains hygiene without affecting taste or texture.
Government Support
Government horticulture schemes support farmers through subsidies for drip irrigation, mulching sheets, and cold storage facilities. Access to expert guidance from agricultural officers helps farmers manage pests, nutrients, and irrigation effectively.
A Sweet Future Ahead
Strawberries farming represents a new direction for Indian agriculture. It offers quicker income cycles, employment generation, and opportunities for youth involvement. With proper irrigation control—especially reducing watering during fruit ripening—modern technology, and smart marketing, farmers can achieve impressive results.
Ramprasad’s strawberry farm proves that with courage, training, and innovation, traditional farming challenges can be overcome. His red fields stand as a symbol of hope, showing that agriculture, when combined with science and strategy, can truly turn dreams into reality.
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