Bitter Gourd Farming: Best Varieties, Ideal Season, and Government Subsidy Explained

Farmers across India are increasingly turning to vegetable cultivation alongside traditional crops. Among vegetables, bitter gourd (karela) stands out as a crop with consistent market demand due to its medicinal and nutritional value. Bitter gourd is rich in vitamins A, B, and C, along with zinc, potassium, magnesium, iron, and manganese, making it particularly beneficial for people with diabetes.

What is Vertical Farming?

Vertical farming refers to a method of growing crops in stacked layers or vertically inclined surfaces, enabling higher yields in limited space. In the case of bitter gourd, farmers build a trellis using bamboo and wires, allowing the vines to climb. Many farmers now opt for organic vertical farming, helping them fetch better prices in the market.

Suitable Soil and Climate for Bitter Gourd Farming:

Sandy loam or alluvial soil near river banks is most suitable for bitter gourd cultivation. Temperature between 25 and 35 degree Celsius and warm and humid climate is preferable.

Ideal Sowing Time for Bitter Gourd: Bitter gourd can be cultivated twice a year, ensuring higher returns, Zaid Season: Sowing in February–March, harvesting in May–June, Kharif Season: Sowing in June–July, harvesting in August–September.

High-Yielding Bitter Gourd Varieties:

1. Pusa Vishesh
2. Arka Harit
3. Pusa Hybrid-2
4. Kalyanpur Barahmasi
5. Pusa Aushadhi
6. Punjab Karela-1

Step-by-Step Farming Method:

1. Apply organic manure (e.g., cow dung) while preparing the soil.
2. Use a cultivator to loosen the soil.
3. Create proper drainage channels to prevent waterlogging.
4. Treat the seeds before sowing.
5. Around 600 grams of seeds are needed per acre.
6. Maintain 70 cm spacing between plants and 2 meters between channels.
7. Once the vines grow, train them to climb the trellis.

Net Trellis Method: Boosting Yield and Protection: The net trellis system is considered the most effective technique for bitter gourd farming. Benefits include: Vines grow freely, reducing the risk of rot. Better protection from grazing animals. Intercropping is possible crops like coriander and fenugreek can be grown in the space between rows. This allows farmers to earn from multiple crops simultaneously.

Income Potential: With proper techniques, bitter gourd farming can be highly profitable. Farmers can earn up to ₹30,000 per acre, making it a viable income-generating crop.

Government Subsidy for Bitter Gourd Cultivation: National Horticulture Mission, the government provides support for hybrid vegetable farming estimated cost ₹50,000 per hectare and Subsidy in general areas 40% (₹20,000 per hectare). Subsidy in hilly/Northeastern regions 50% (₹25,000 per hectare).