Glossy, juicier, sweeter — daisy tangerine a hit among growers

Daisy tangerine — a reddish-orange, glossy, sweet, and juicy fruit — is gradually gaining popularity among fruit growers, especially in the south-western part of the state, which is widely known as the kinnow belt.

Currently, 1,500 hectares are under daisy tangerine cultivation in the state.

The variety is a cross between Fortune Mandarin and Fremont Mandarin varieties of California.

Though this fruit was introduced in the state about two decades ago, the effort did not yield the desired results at that time.

However, in recent years, the fruit has gained popularity among growers and also consumers.

“The early harvesting period (from the end of October to mid-November), higher and sweeter juice content, and long shelf life are making daisy tangerine a favourite among fruit growers. I have grown this fruit in a 50-acre orchard,” said Balwinder Singh Tikka, a recipient of a state award for the best citrus fruit orchard in Punjab. He said while other fully ripened citrus fruits, like kinnow, hit the market in December, daisy tangerine reaches the market almost two months in advance, fetching more than double the price.

“Moreover, it has lower input cost due to its early maturity, requires less irrigation and fewer pesticides. The plant’s annual pruning is also easier. Due to its longer shelf life, it is easier to export. It doesn’t even require waxing while being transported within the country.” He added. Tikka said the Centre and the state are offering subsidies and incentives for citrus farming to encourage diversification.

Dr Harminder Singh, Principal Fruit Scientist at Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Ludhiana, said, “We have four main juicy fruits in the state – kinnow, malta, mausami, and daisy. However, once you taste daisy juice, you will drink it again and again. It doesn’t require sugar or salt.”

“Additionally, it fetches good prices, matures early, and thus requires fewer expenses on irrigation and pesticides,” he added.

Dr Balwinder Singh, Nodal Officer, Citrus Fruits, Horticulture Department, said, “The state has 46,000 hectares under kinnow cultivation, and 1,500 hectares are under daisy tangerine cultivation in the south-western part of the state and Hoshiarpur district. Some kinnow growers have already switched to daisy farming.”