Economics of Propagation of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) under Protected Environmental Conditions

Fruit crops play a vital role in Indian Horticulture because of their high economic returns. Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) is a favorite table fruit. In India, it is grown in Maharashtra followed by Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Gujarat states. The total area under pomegranate is 88,500 ha with a production of 568.20 thousand metric tons. Pomegranate is generally propagated by hard wood stem cuttings which root easily. However, the percentage of rooting varies with the cultivar and vagary of climatic conditions does not permit propagation of disease free planting material throughout the year. Hence, under greenhouse conditions it is possible to protect them from unfavorable climatic conditions and also produce disease free quality planting material with remunerative profit. The present study was structured to examine the cost efficiency of propagation of pomegranate under different greenhouse structures by estimating the benefit cost ratio under different propagating structures. The results showed a maximum benefit:cost ratio of 1.51:1 with a medium cost greenhouse structure with misting followed by 1.42:1 with medium cost greenhouse structure with humidifier and fans compared to high cost greenhouse structure with misting (1.21:1). A low benefit:cost ratio of 1.14:1 was obtained in open conditions.