The Arecanut is one of the important commercial crops of India, particularly in Kerala. Arecanut is an extensively cultivated tropical palm. It is a tall-stemmed ,erect, reaching varied height ,depending upon the environmental conditions. Arecanut varieties in Kerala are given below,
Mangala (VTL – 3)
It is a variety of arecanut recommended for Kerala. Released from CPCRI Regional Station, Vittal. It is a Semi-tall type. Early bearing, early yield stabilization, high fruit set and yield. Mean yield 10 Kg ripe nuts/ palm/year. The nut possesses good quality attributes.
Mohitnagar
It is a variety of arecanut recommended for Kerala.it is Tall variety. The nut is very big and uniform. It yields better than other selections. Bunches are well spaced. Mean yield 19.5 Kg ripe nuts / palm/year.
Sree Mangala (VTL – 17)
It is a tall variety of arecanut recommended for Kerala. Released for CPCRI Regional Station, Vittal. Tall variety. Tolerant to burrowing nematode, Radopkolus similes. Nuts are round and oval. Mean yield 15.6 Kg ripe nuts/palm/year.
Sumangala (VTL-11)
It is a tall variety of arecanut recommended for Kerala. Released for CPCRI Regional Station, Vittal. Early bearing, early yield stabilization, high fruit set and yield. Tolerant to burrowing nematode, Radopkolus similes. Mean yield 17:5 Kg ripe nuts /palm/year. Nuts are oval and medium in size.
VTLAH 1
It is a high yielding hybrid variety. The variety developed from CPCRI, Kasaragod. The variety is dwarf that makes harvesting from ground easy.
VLTAH 2
It is a high yielding hybrid variety. The variety developed from CPCRI, Kasaragod. The variety is dwarf that makes harvesting from ground easy.
Inter C Mangala
Inter C Mangala Areca nut Plant is a hybrid variety of Mangala Areca nut. It is a high-yielding variety with 1500-2000 nuts per tree when grown up. Interc Mangala is most cultivated in the Mangalore region of Karnataka. This dwarf variety has attracted many farmers around for its high yield and dwarf nature. This variety is also tolerant to a variety of diseases. Requires moderate water and Good sunlight. The plant produces 15-20kg of areca nut (betel nut) if taken care of correctly. That’s a significant increase compared to other varieties, translating to more income for you. The areca nuts from this variety also weigh more than other mangala varieties.
Kasaragodan Arecanut
The Kasaragodan Arecanut is a prized variety known for its robustness, consistent yields, and high-quality nuts. Cultivated for generations in the Kasaragod district of Kerala, this variety offers numerous advantages for farmers seeking a dependable and profitable crop. This plants are known for their robust build. These resilient trees boast tall, sturdy frames with medium-thick stems. This strong structure allows them to withstand harsh weather conditions and resist common arecanut diseases that can plague other varieties. The longer internodes on these plants contribute to their overall health and longevity, ensuring your plantation prospers for years to come.
Arecanut is an extensively cultivated in Kerala, the varied geographical conditions of the state have encouraged the cultivation of various Arecanuts. From traditional cultivars like Mangala, Mohitnagar , Sree Mangala, Kasaragodan Arecanutand Sumangala to modern hybrids like VTLAH 1, VLTAH 2 , Inter c Mangala are the varieties options for areca nut growers. The main aim is implementing hybrid areca nut varieties in Kerala to improve yield, disease resistance, and overall quality. This ensures the sustainability of the areca nut industry in the state.