Broccoli: A crop-for income maximization under Bengaluru Rural district, Karnataka

A study on the major crucifer crops grown under Bengaluru Rural district was conducted by ICAR KVK, Bengaluru Rural district for determining a crucifer vegetable which provides maximum profit. The study revealed that, cauliflower and cabbage is cultivated to a larger extent and broccoli occupies minor areas among the crucifers in Bengaluru Rural area. The varieties Dhaval (cauliflower) and Maharani (cabbage) have occupied larger areas compared to Lucky variety of Broccoli. Black rot is a major problem in all the 3 crucifers under study, followed by Diamond back moth on cauliflower and cabbage; aphids on broccoli. Relevant plant protection measures is a complete necessity to avoid crop loss. The profit incurred from cultivation of Lucky variety is more compared to Maharani and Dhaval varieties. The selling price of one curd and head is Rs. 12 /800 gm and Rs. 7 /800 gm, respectively and higher price is obtained from selling heads of broccoli at Rs. 80/ kg as broccoli is a demand driven crop, cultivation of broccoli in a larger area and marketing directly to the consumers will benefit the farmers. At a conclusive point, as farmers are cultivating cauliflower and cabbage to a larger extent, direct marketing may benefit farmers.