Grapefruit, a hybrid citrus fruit, is proving to be treasure trove for farmers as the state’s subtropical climate has aided high yield.First discovered in Barbados in the 18th century, the fruit is rich in nutrition has a wide range of health benefits.With a combination of all these factors driving the fruit’s market demand, experts at Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) are encouraging farmers to adopt grapefruit cultivation.White as well as pigmented varieties of grapefruit, including duncan, marsh seedless, foster, red blush, star ruby and flame, are recommended for the state. Seedless varieties are particularly popular among consumers and traders. For instance, experts say marsh seedless yields nearly 93 kg per tree and flame and red blush varieties produce between 74 and 76 kg per tree. Star ruby, though smaller in size, is prized for its deep red flesh and high vitamin C content, said Anil Kumar Sangwan from the PAU research station at Abohar.Grapefruit is low in sugar, fat and protein, and high in fibre and potassium. A single serving of half a fruit provides 52 calories, 13.2 g carbohydrates, 8.5 g sugars, 0.9 g protein and 38.4 mg vitamin C.The fruit is rich in antioxidants such as naringin and hesperidin, and strengthens immunity, reduces blood pressure, lowers cholesterol, aids weight management and supports skin health. According to Krishan Kumar from the same research station, grapefruit’s anti-inflammatory and anti-carcinogenic properties enhance its therapeutic importance.The experts, however, urge patients on certain medications to exercise caution. Grapefruit contains furanocoumarins that interfere with liver enzymes responsible for drug breakdown, potentially leading to overdoses. Those on statins or blood pressure drugs should consult doctors before consuming the fruit.The experts said the optimal temperature for the fruit’s cultivation is between 25 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius.“Grapefruit thrives in well-drained fertile soils. It requires a water table at least three metres deep for healthy root growth. The crop is suited to Punjab’s subtropical climate. Farmers can plant during spring or post monsoon, using T-budded plants. PAU recommends spacing of 6×6 metres, accommodating 110 plants per acre,” said an expert.For sustained yield, proper irrigation, pruning and fertilisation are essential. The PAU advises applying farmyard manure in December and splitting nitrogen doses between February and April. Insect pests such as citrus psylla, leaf miner, thrips and fruit fly, and with diseases like citrus canker, must be managed to ensure orchard health.All these factors put together mean that grapefruit offers farmers a lucrative diversification option. PAU experts said adopting improved seedless varieties can help state farmers tap into the growing demand for this citrus fruit.Key benefitsStrengthens immunityReduces blood pressureLowers cholesterolHelps manage body weightAnti-inflammatory, anti-carcinogenicSupports heart healthImproves skin healthRich in antioxidants
