Garlic is an essential spice crop grown worldwide. In recent years, Ooty Garlic has gained significant popularity among farmers. This high-yielding variety was developed by Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU) in 1991. Currently, farmers in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Gujarat are cultivating this variety on a large scale.
At present, nearly 80-90% of the garlic grown in Malwa and Rajasthan belongs to the Ooty variety. Its high yield potential and better market price make it a preferred choice among farmers.
Advantages of Growing Ooty Garlic
High Market Price
- Compared to native garlic, Ooty garlic fetches a significantly higher price.
- Its superior quality, bright white color, and large-sized bulbs are the main reasons for its high demand.
Double Yield Capacity
- Ooty garlic yields almost twice as much as traditional garlic varieties.
- Native garlic yield: 20-25 quintals per acre
- Ooty garlic yield: 40-60 quintals per acre
- This increased yield makes it a preferred choice for farmers.
Good Price for Wet Garlic
- Unlike native garlic, Ooty garlic can be sold with some moisture content.
- Traders readily purchase slightly moist Ooty garlic, ensuring a consistent income for farmers.
Larger Size and Superior Quality
- The average bulb weight of Ooty garlic is 40-50 grams, compared to 20-25 grams for native garlic.
- It has thick cloves, making it easier to peel and increasing its market demand.
Shorter Harvest Period
- Ooty garlic is ready for harvest in 120-140 days.
- Harvesting takes place in March-April, when garlic prices are generally higher.
How to Sell Ooty Garlic at Maximum Price?
Cleaning and Grading
- Clean the garlic thoroughly by removing dirt from the roots, stems, and bulbs.
- Well-cleaned garlic receives 20-25% higher prices in the market.
Proper Drying
- Before selling, dry the garlic in direct sunlight for 2-3 days.
- Excess moisture reduces garlic’s market price, so it should be completely dry before selling.
Focus on Color and Peeling Layers
- Garlic bulbs should be white and shiny.
- If the bulbs have 2-3 protective layers, they fetch a better price.
- Overly peeled garlic has a lower market value.
Encourage Thick Clove Development
- Garlic with larger cloves has a higher demand.
- To achieve this, apply potash, phosphorus, and calcium in the right amounts.
Impact of Demand and Supply
This year, there is a high international demand for dehydrated garlic, which is expected to keep prices elevated. The price of garlic mainly depends on its size and grading.
Ooty Garlic Farming Made Profitable – don’t miss this video
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Ooty Garlic
Q. What is Ooty Garlic?
A. Ooty Garlic is a high-yielding garlic variety developed by Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU) in 1991. It is known for its large bulbs, white color, and high market value.
Q. Which states cultivate Ooty Garlic?
A. Ooty garlic is primarily cultivated in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Tamil Nadu.
Q. What are the differences between Ooty Garlic and Native Garlic?
- Bulb Size: Ooty garlic bulbs are 40-50 grams, while native garlic bulbs are 20-25 grams.
- Yield: Ooty garlic produces double the yield compared to native varieties.
- Appearance: Ooty garlic is whiter and shinier, making it more appealing in the market.
- Maturity Period: Ooty garlic matures in 120-140 days, whereas native garlic takes longer.
Q. What is the average yield of Ooty Garlic per acre?
The average yield of Ooty Garlic is 40-60 quintals per acre, whereas native garlic yields 20-25 quintals per acre.
Q. What is the ideal climate for Ooty Garlic cultivation?
A. Ooty garlic thrives in a cool and dry climate. The ideal temperature for its growth is 15-25°C.
Q. What type of soil is suitable for Ooty Garlic farming?
A. Well-drained loamy and sandy loam soil is best for Ooty garlic. The soil pH should be 6.5-7.5 for optimal growth.
Q. What is the best time to plant Ooty Garlic?
- Sowing Time: October-November
- Harvesting Time: March-April
Q. What fertilizers should be used for Ooty Garlic?
- Nitrogen: 50-60 kg/acre
- Phosphorus: 30-40 kg/acre
- Potash: 30-40 kg/acre
- Calcium and Sulfur: Improve bulb size and quality
Q. What are the common pests and diseases in Ooty Garlic?
- Diseases: Purple blotch, white rot, downy mildew
- Pests: Thrips, whitefly, cutworm
- Solution: Regular pest control and organic treatments
Q. How can farmers sell Ooty Garlic at a higher price?
- Proper Cleaning and Grading
- Adequate Drying Before Selling
- Maintaining White and Bright Appearance
- Growing Thick Cloves for Better Market Value
Q. Why does Ooty Garlic have a higher market price than native garlic?
A. Due to its white color, large bulb size, high yield, and increasing international demand for dehydrated garlic.
Q. What factors affect the price of Ooty Garlic?
- Brightness and Shine
- Bulb Size and Weight
- Proper Grading and Cleaning
- Market Demand and Supply
Q. What are the benefits of growing Ooty Garlic?
- Higher Yield and Profitability
- Strong Market Demand
- Longer Shelf Life
- Faster Maturity
