This summer, a new hybrid and export variety of watermelon and melon, named ‘Saraswati’ set to make its debut in Uttar Pradesh markets. Unlike traditional round watermelons, these varieties are smaller in size and boast a unique square shape, owing to the utilisation of hybrid seeds.
Cultivated primarily by farmers in Prayagraj, the Saraswati watermelons and melons stand out not only for their distinct shape but also for their enhanced sweetness, with a higher Total Solid Sugar or TSS value. Covering approximately 1,000 acres of land across Prayagraj, Kaushambhi, and Fatehpur districts, these crops are cultivated using the mulch film cultivation technique.
Breaking away from the conventional green exterior and bright red interior, the Saraswati varieties offer a visual feast with alternative colour combinations such as yellow exterior with a bright red interior or green exterior with a yellow interior. These enticing variations promise to add a splash of colour and flavour to the summer fruit market in Uttar Pradesh.
Agriculture expert Manoj Kumar Srivastava said, “Farmers are cultivating seeds being brought from Taiwan to yield a good crop in limited resources. The small and medium-sized watermelon and melon in round and square shapes are more sought after by fruit lovers across the country as they have a total solid sugar value up to 14 to 15 per cent.”
Farmers cultivating watermelon and melon are quick to highlight the benefits of growing new hybrid varieties with technical guidance. These innovative cultivars not only promise better yields but also translate into higher profits for farmers.
With proper guidance, farmers have been able to optimise their cultivation techniques to grow hybrid varieties of watermelons and melons. As a result, they can now earn profits ranging from Rs 80,000 to Rs 90,000 per acre.
Currently, the hybrid watermelon and melon varieties are being cultivated across multiple regions including trans-Ganga and Yamuna in Prayagraj, Mooratganj in Kaushambhi, and Khaga in Fatehpur district.
Japan & Square Watermelons
About 50 years ago, farmers in Takamatsu, Japan’s Kagawa Prefecture, pioneered the development of square watermelons. Their motivation stemmed from a desire to elevate their community’s recognition among Japan’s agricultural circles. Gradually, it became an iconic symbol of Japanese ingenuity and become a highly coveted commodity. Later, the square shape of these watermelons served the purpose of easier transportation and storage leading to more profits for the farmers and companies.
Its uncommon shape also commanded prices as high as $100 each, far surpassing the value of regular watermelons of the same variety. Today, square watermelons remain a prized delicacy and a testament to the innovative spirit of Japanese agriculture.
