Pomelo (Citrus maxima), often considered the ancestor of grapefruit, is the largest member of the citrus family and is prized for its thick rind, juicy pulp, and mildly sweet taste. Native to Southeast Asia, pomelo has been cultivated for centuries and is now increasingly grown in India due to its adaptability and high market potential. Known by different regional names, such as Chakotra in Hindi or Batabi Lebu in Bengali, pomelo stands out not just for its size but also for its health benefits, being rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and dietary fiber.
Pomelo Cultivation: Ideal Climate and Soil Conditions
Cultivating pomelo successfully begins with selecting the right location and soil. This fruit tree thrives in tropical and subtropical climates and prefers warm, humid conditions. A temperature range between 25°C to 32°C is ideal, while frost-prone regions should be avoided. As for the soil, pomelo trees perform best in well-drained, sandy loam or alluvial soils with a pH ranging from 5.5 to 7.5. Heavy clay soils with poor drainage can hinder root development and cause waterlogging, so raised beds or proper drainage channels are often recommended.
Propagation Methods
Propagation of pomelo is typically done through seeds, air layering, or budding techniques. While seed propagation is simple and commonly used, it may not always ensure true-to-type plants or early bearing. Therefore, vegetative propagation like budding onto rootstocks such as rough lemon or Rangpur lime is often preferred for commercial orchards, as it results in more uniform trees and quicker fruiting.
Planting Season and Spacing
The planting season for pomelo is usually at the onset of the monsoon (June to August) or during the cooler months (September to February) when the soil has sufficient moisture. Pits of about 60 x 60 x 60 cm should be prepared in advance and filled with a mix of soil, farmyard manure (FYM), and neem cake to enhance fertility and suppress soil-borne pests. Saplings are usually planted at a spacing of 6 to 8 meters to allow adequate sunlight and air circulation.
Water and Irrigation Management
Once established, pomelo trees require regular care and attention. Irrigation should be managed according to the season and soil type. During summer, watering every 7–10 days is usually sufficient, while in winter, the frequency can be reduced. However, overwatering should be avoided, as it may lead to root rot and fungal infections. Mulching around the base of the tree helps retain moisture and control weeds.
Nutrient and Fertilizer Requirements
Nutrient management plays a significant role in pomelo cultivation. A balanced dose of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is essential, along with organic compost or green manure to enrich the soil. Typically, fertilizers are applied in split doses during the active growing season. Zinc and magnesium deficiencies are also common in citrus crops and may require foliar sprays to correct.
Pruning, Training, and Canopy Management
Training and pruning are vital to shaping the tree and maintaining a healthy canopy. Regular pruning helps remove dead or diseased branches and allows better sunlight penetration and airflow. This also aids in improving fruit size and quality. Proper canopy management helps maintain the health of the plant and ease of harvesting.
Pest and Disease Control
Pomelo trees are vulnerable to common citrus pests like aphids, citrus psylla, leaf miners, and mealybugs. Fungal diseases such as gummosis and leaf spot can also affect productivity. Integrated pest management (IPM), including biological controls and neem-based sprays, is often recommended to reduce chemical dependency and maintain plant health.
Flowering and Fruit Development
The flowering season generally begins after 3–4 years of planting, depending on the variety and growing conditions. Flowers are white, fragrant, and attract pollinators such as bees. Fruit development takes around 5 to 6 months from flowering to harvest. Mature pomelo fruits are large, round to pear-shaped, and weigh anywhere from 1 to 4 kg. The skin is thick and can be yellow or pale green, while the inner flesh may vary in color from white to pink.
Harvesting and Post-Harvest Handling
Harvesting is typically done manually using clippers or secateurs to avoid bruising the thick rind. Fruits should be harvested when fully mature, as they do not ripen once plucked. Signs of maturity include a slight yellowing of the skin and a characteristic fruity aroma. Proper post-harvest handling is essential for maintaining fruit quality. Pomelo has a relatively long shelf life and can be stored for up to two weeks at room temperature or longer under refrigeration.
Economic Potential and Market Value
From a commercial perspective, pomelo cultivation offers promising returns due to increasing demand in local and export markets. It is valued not just for its refreshing taste but also for its use in juices, salads, desserts, and even traditional medicine. With growing consumer awareness about health and nutrition, the demand for antioxidant-rich fruits like pomelo is steadily rising.
Pomelo cultivation in India is a viable and rewarding venture for farmers willing to invest in quality planting material, proper orchard management, and sustainable practices. With the right combination of climate, care, and market linkage, this giant citrus fruit can become a fruitful addition to India’s diverse horticultural landscape.
