In a milestone for Nashik, Maharashtra, Fratelli Fruits Farmer Producer Company has successfully cultivated Maluma avocados, a premium international variety, marking a first for the region. Harish More, Vice President of Fratelli Fruits, says: "This highly demanded, creamier avocado offers more yield through high-density planting."
In January 2023, Fratelli established a test block in Nashik, India's horticultural hub, to evaluate four avocado varieties, Maluma, Hass, Zutano, and a local Indian variety, under scientific conditions. "Maluma emerged as the top performer, with early fruiting in the second year, exceptional yield, and superior fruit quality," More explains. "Zutano showed strong growth and canopy formation, while Hass needs two more years to mature fully in Indian conditions. The local variety, though adaptable, takes three months longer to reach harvest and delivers average yield and taste," he adds.
© Fratelli Fruits FPC
According to More, Fratelli's success stems from precision agronomy tailored to Nashik's conditions: "Proper deep ripping, subsoil analysis, and drainage design ensured oxygen availability to roots and prevented waterlogging," More notes, highlighting soil preparation as critical for avocado cultivation. "Precision irrigation optimized moisture while avoiding root rot and salinity stress, a cornerstone of Maluma's performance in the region. Customized trellising supported canopy development and reduced wind damage, improving fruit quality. Proactive disease and pest management, using preventive sprays and integrated pest management (IPM), minimized issues across varieties. Regular pruning and leaf analysis ensured balanced canopies, enhancing light penetration and fruit setting," he added.
"The Maluma variety stands out for its commercial promise," More says, noting its creamy texture, excellent taste, and shelf-life. "Compared to Hass, Maluma requires less maintenance and offers faster returns, making it ideal for Indian farmers seeking alternatives to grapes and pomegranates. It's early yield, starting in the second year, positions it as a high-value crop for both domestic and export markets," he adds.
© Fratelli Fruits FPC
More emphasis that this test block could serve as a model for India's future with avocados. "With the right agronomy, infrastructure, and commitment, we have proven that Maluma avocados can thrive in Maharashtra." He further states, "The variety's adaptability and profitability offer farmers a sustainable option, diversifying income sources. For Indian consumers, Maluma's creamy texture and quality elevate avocado availability, meeting rising demand in urban markets. Export potential is also strong, with Maluma's traits aligning with global preferences for premium avocados."
Looking ahead, Fratelli aims to expand Maluma cultivation. "This is not just a trial, it's a blueprint for sustainable farming," More concludes, highlighting the potential to transform Nashik's agricultural landscape.
For more information:
Harish More
Fratelli Fruits FPC
Tel: +91 99 23 815 102
Email: [email protected]
www.fratellifruits.in
