Strawberry harvest brings cheer to Lambasingi farmers
Strawberry farmers in Lambasingi, often referred to as Andhra Kashmir, are enjoying a strong season this year. Yields have nearly doubled compared to the last three years. Farmers credit favourable weather and the good performance of the Winter Dawn variety for the improved output.
“We are getting almost double the yield this season,” said a farmer from Lambasingi. “Importantly, cyclones did not affect the crop, and the plants stayed healthy throughout.”
Farmers are cultivating strawberries on nearly 50 acres in and around Lambasingi, situated in the tribal belt of the Alluri Sitharama Raju district. Although strawberries usually grow in cooler regions of North India, the crop has adapted well to local conditions. As a result, attractive market prices and steady demand have encouraged more farmers to take up cultivation.
“Initially, farmers treated strawberries as an experimental crop,” said a horticulture official. “Now, it has become a regular rabi crop because it offers consistent income.”
Scientists at the Chintapalli Horticultural Research Station identified the region as suitable for strawberry farming in 1995. Later, in 2008, cultivation gained momentum after a farmer from Gondipakala village near Lambasingi began growing strawberries with plants sourced from Pune. With guidance from horticulture scientists, his success encouraged other farmers, including those from the plains, to lease land and grow the crop.
Harvesting began in November and peaked in December. Meanwhile, the tourist season brought visitors from neighbouring States and nearby areas, which pushed up demand. “Tourists prefer buying fresh fruits directly from farms,” said a local trader. “Because of this, nearly 90 per cent of the produce is sold locally.”
Only a small quantity reaches markets in the plains. Farmers said strawberries are currently selling at around Rs 100 for 200 grams. Therefore, strawberries have emerged as one of the most profitable crops in the region this season.