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Within five to six years, Malabar Neem can grow 40-50 feet tall, producing 10-15 quintals of wood per tree, which fetches Rs 600 to 800 per quintal in the market
Malabar Neem matures much faster than traditional timber trees, reaching market value within five to six years, compared to the 10-15 years required for other varieties. (Local18)
Alongside traditional farming, farmers are now exploring new ways to increase their income. One such method is planting trees along the edges of their fields. However, due to the wrong selection of tree species, the expected profits are often not achieved.
On this subject, Dr Arvind Kumar Singh, agricultural scientist at ISECT University in Hazaribagh, Jharkhand, explains that farmers can boost their earnings by growing trees along field boundaries. He suggests that Malabar Neem is a profitable option, and several new-age farmers with knowledge are turning towards this tree for extra income.
According to Dr Singh, Malabar Neem is a fast-growing tree that thrives in Jharkhand’s soil and climate. It matures much faster than traditional timber trees, reaching market value within five to six years, compared to the 10-15 years required for other varieties.
Farmers can plant Malabar Neem at 10-foot intervals along the field’s border. Its branches do not spread excessively, and its straight-growing trunk minimises shade on crops, ensuring no adverse effect on cultivation.
Within five to six years, Malabar Neem can grow 40-50 feet tall, producing 10-15 quintals of wood per tree, which fetches Rs 600 to 800 per quintal in the market.
Dr Arvind Kumar also mentioned that the government supports farmers in cultivating Malabar Neem. Under various schemes, saplings are provided at subsidised rates, and the process for obtaining permission to cut and sell the wood is straightforward.
Dr Arvind emphasises that Malabar Neem is an excellent investment for farmers. With consistent demand in the plywood, furniture, and paper industries, cultivating it using scientific methods and proper planning can create a steady additional income source alongside traditional farming.
- Location :
Jharkhand, India, India