eChapters

Introduction

It is found growing wild in the sub-tropical and tropical parts of India. The edible part of annona is the areoles. It has about 120 species, five of them having pomological significance, and four of the five species are important in commerce. Custard apples are cultivated mainly in Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Assam, and Orissa.

Introduction

The flesh contains 60–65 percent sugar, 2 percent protein, 2.5 per cent fiber, 0.4 per cent fat and 2 per cent mineral matter. Date palm contains 75-80% carbohydrates in the form of invert sugar. It is a good source of easily assimilable iron (7.3 mg/100g) and is hence prescribed to anaemic patients along with honey. It fed on running water and its head on the fire of the sky.

Introduction

Pitaya also known as Dragon Fruit is a superfruit indigenous to central and South America that is grown all over the world. It has a faint, sweet taste much like an earthy watermelon. It’s a fast growing crop and the plant as can have produced for more than seven to eight years. The fruit of this plant having red skin covered with large scale and white or pinkflesh contains some black seeds. It can be used in jams, ice creams, jelly production, fruit juice, and wine. This fruit is famous in Thailand, Vietnam, Israel and Sri Lanka. This fruit cultivation is excellent in regions where less rainfall is expected. This fruit plant is treated as an ornamental plant as well as a fruit producing plant. Dragon fruit contains 73.9 kcal, 1 g protein, 0 g fat, 0.5 g fiber, 23 g carbohydrates, 23 g sugar, calcium 30 mg. 10.9 mg sodium and 1.79 mg vitamin C. Dragon fruit is consumed as a fresh fruit or can be used in jams, ice cream, jelly production, fruit juice and wine. This fruit is also used in face packs.

Introduction

The durian is an important fruit in several parts of the tropics and is the famous fruit of the far East, where it is widely cultivated throughout Malaysia. It is indigenous to Malaysia, i.e., South East Asia, and is distributed in Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines, Thailand, Singapore, Kampuchia, Myanmar, India, and Sri Lanka. The term durio is the Malaysian word duri-thorn, and zibethinus is the Italian word for “zibetho,” meaning “strong-smelling. Thus, this is a fruit characterised by a greenish, hard, thick rind on the outside and a yellowish, sweet flesh with a strong odour. The fruits are nothing but seeds covered with a cotton-like fibre.

Introduction

Ficus carica is widely distributed in tropical and sub-tropical countries. The related genera with edible fruits are Artocarpus, Cudrania and Morus of the family Moraceae. Some important species are Ficus glomerata, Ficus bengalensis, Ficus religiosa, Ficus elastica, Ficus hispida and Ficus roxburghii. A fig is a large shrub or low-growing deciduous tree with a short and twisted trunk. Fruits are solitary, axillary green or yellow, pear-shaped.

Introduction

Grapes are a delicious, refreshing, and nourishing fruit. It was introduced into India by the in values of Iran and Afghanistan. 50% of the total production of fruits in the world is contributed by grapes. Cultivation of grapes is called “viticulture”. Easily digestible and rich in energy-giving sugars, certain minerals and vitamins. Grape juice is a refreshing drink a stimulant to kidenys and laxactive. In India, 80% of the production is used for table purposes, 10% for raisins and 10% for wine production, while in western countries 80% is used for winery, 10% for raisins, and 10% for table purposes. The area of the same is increasing fast in Maharashtra, Karnataka, Mizorum, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Punjab, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh are grape growing.

Introduction

Guava ranks 4^th in area and production after mango, banana, and citrus. It is a very hardy sub-tropical plant, prolific bearer. It is known as the “poor man’s apple” in India and has spread widely throughout the country. Allahabad has the reputation of growing the best guava in the country as well as in the world. A native of tropical America, guava was spread rapidly throughout the world’s tropics by the Spanish and Portuguese. The major guava producing countries are India, China, Thailand, Indonesia and Pakistan. In India, it is grown in Uttar Pradesh (largest area and production), Bihar, M.P, Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh. The fresh fruits are very rich in vitamin C (100-260 mg/100 g pulp). Vit-A, B and minerals like Calcium, P, acidity 2.4 per cent, carbohydrates 9-10 per cent, TSS-13 per cent, pantothenic acid, riboflavin, thiamin and niacin, also a rich source of pectin. The fresh ripe fruits are used as table/salad fruit. Fruits are rich in pectin. The best quality jelly can be prepared.

Introduction

Jack fruit is indigenous to India and is commonly grown in Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Brazil, Jamaica, Myanmar, Singapore, and India. In India, it grows in a wild and semi-wild state in Kerala, Assam, W.B, Tripura, Bihar, U.P. and Western Ghats. Jackfruit is a common and popular fruit crop in the low land tropics of the eastern and southern parts of India. It is the largest edible fruit (20–40 kg). In Sri Lanka, a fruit of about 120 kg was harvested and created the world record. The fruit is also called “poor man’s fruit” in the eastern and southern parts. In the Tamil literature, Jack has been given the important second position of the significant ‘three fruits’, viz., ‘Mukkani’. It is mainly distributed in the tropical humid belt. In India, Assam, Bihar, Kerala and Tamil Nadu are the main jackfruit growing states. In Tamil Nadu, the lower Palani hills of Dindigul Anna district and Panruti of South Arcot Vallalar district are known for the best quality jack fruit. India is considered to be the native home of jacks.

Introduction

It is a tall, handsome evergreen tree of tropical and subtropical regions and has its origin probably in India or the East Indies. It is one of the hardiest fruits and best suited for wastelands. It is drought tolerant and, at the same time, can tolerate water stagnation and marshlands, where other fruit crops cannot be grown successfully. It is more popular as an avenue tree and for wind breaks. The wood is used as timber in buildings and railway sleepers. It is often found growing as a wild and semi-wild in tropical and subtropical parts of India viz., Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh.

Introduction

Karonda is an evergreen shrub or short stature tree. It grows naturally in the Himalayas and Western Ghats at elevations of 300 to 1800 meters. It is found grown in wild in India, Malaysia, South Africa. It is a well suitedto arid climate and grown well at higher temperature. It is commonly uses for making hedge for orchards. It is suitable for the arid tropics and subtropics and is grown for its attractive, edible fruits. It also grows successfully on marginal and wastelands. It thrives well as a rainfed crop; the plant hardly needs any care and gives yield with the minimum management. The plants can be trained as a strong hedge. Karonda is suitable for growing throughout the sub-tropical and tropical climatic zones of India. Major natural areas of occurrence of karonda have been observed in the states of Maharashtra, Bihar, West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, Orissa, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and in the Western Ghats. In Maharashtra, the major area under this crop is scattered in sub-mountain areas like Kolhapur, Ratnagiri, and Pune district.

Introduction

Kokum, is native of the Western. Ghats in India, and Malaysia. In India it mainly grows in the western parts of Maharashtra, Karnataka, Kerala and Goa. It is found in evergreen and semi-evergreen forests and as a home garden tree. Kokum is an evergreen tree it is seldom planted in the form of an orchard and generally scattered trees are found in gardens and on waste lands.

Introduction

Litchi is a popular subtropical evergreen fruit; the white, translucent, flavoured aril is liked very much and is used for table purposes in India. The fruits are available during May-June in northern India. It is a native fruit of the warm subtropical zone of China and has excellent quality juice. Each fruit is a one-seeded nut. The pericarp is the skin, which has a papillate projection like a strawberry. Litchi is commonly consumed as a table fruit, but in China it is very popular in dried (litchi nut) or canned form, which is very popular among Chinese foods. A highly flavoured squash is also prepared from the fruits. The Chinese use the leaves for making poultices; the seeds are used for treating skin disorders. The fruits can be canned, made into squash, pickles, and wine, or dried to form litchi nuts. The tree is a medium sized evergreen with more branches. The fruits are borne in bunches. Flower bark and root decoction are used for gargling throat infections.

Introduction

Longan is a close relative of lychee, having similar growth and fruiting habits but being somewhat hardier than lychee. The fruits are smaller, smooth-surfaced with a yellow to brown colour. It originated in the subtropical region of China or in the area between Myanmar and India. Fruits contain 25.2% carbohydrate, 1% protein, 0.5% fat, vitamin A (28 IU/100G) and vitamin C. Longan contributes to the greatest fruit export of Thailand. Longan/Lungan, also known as “Dragon’s Eye” or “Little Brother of Lychee”, is an important sub-tropical fruit crop.

Introduction

Evergreen and subtropical fruit crop, used as an ornamental purpose. Japan is the largest producer, followed by China in the world. Loquat is a strictly subtropical evergreen pome fruit. Pome means consisting of 5 carpels united and covered by an edible portion of fruit. Loquat is a delicious summer fruit. Depending on the cultivar, it contains 60 to 70% pulp and 15-20% seed. The pulp is composed of 88% water, 0.6% proteins, 9.6% carbohydrates, 0.5% minerals, and 1.0% fibre. Fruit is a rich source of vitamin-A: 500–2300 IU/100g, potassium, and manganese. Seeds and peels contain amygdalin, which causes toxic symptoms in children when converted to HCN. Some preparations like jam, jelly, and squash are made from the pulp. It is consumed as a fresh fruit. The colour of epicarp usually ranges between yellow and red. The fruit tastes sweet and sour with good flavour.

Introduction

Mahua is an indigenous tree of high economic value. A characteristic tree of the dry region. It is found in northern and central India. It is commonly grown in eastern Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar, Orissa, Andhra Pradesh and Gujarat. The tree has been well known to rural folk for ages in India. Its flowers, fruits, and oil obtained from seeds are eaten in various ways. The corolla, commonly called mahua flowers, is a rich source of sugar, containing an appreciable amount of vitamins and minerals. Fruit, a berry, is eaten raw or cooked. Pulp is a good source of sugar, while dry husk makes a good source of absolute alcohol. Seed is a good source of oil. Linoleic acid, a major unsaturated fatty acid found in mahua oil, is used to lower cholesterol levels in blood serum, making it useful for heart patients. Madhuca is derived from the Sanskrit word madhu.

Introduction

It is the national fruit of India. No other fruit can compete with mango in respect to area, production, nutritive value, and popularity. For this reason, the mango is known as the king of fruits. In India, mango cultivation is 40006000 years old. Growing states are U.P., followed by A.P. and to some extent in all the rest of the states. It is also grown in India, China, Thailand, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Burma, Malaya, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Egypt, Africa, Florida, Hawaii, Brazil, Mexico, etc. Unripe fruits are used for culinary purposes, such as pickles, powder, chutney, and sarbat. Ripe fruits are used for squash, jam, toffee, juice, slices, and canning of pulp and slices.

Introduction

The mangosteen is one of the finest fruits of the tropics. It is a sweet, soft, and delicious fruit with an exciting flavour. They are formed from the nucellar tissue in the ‘parthenocarpy’ fruits. broad-leaved evergreen tree. A natural staple food for man.

Introduction

Mulberry is one of the important minor fruits found to grow all over India from tropical to temperate regions. It is mainly cultivated in India for rearing silk worm. Silk worms feed on the leaves of the mulberry plant. Its sour-sweet taste of fruits is becoming very popular in India and abroad. It is cultivated in South eastern and Southern parts of Asia, whole Africa, Southern-Europe, Australia and some parts of North and South America. It is mainly found to grow in the sub-Himalayan tracts. It is grown in the states of Kashmir, Karnataka, Punjab, Uttra Pradesh and some parts of West Bengal. In Indian its cultivation was introduced from Persia. In India it is widely cultivated in about 40,000 hectares of area. Karnataka has the largest area of about 28,000 hectares and Kashmir occupies the second position.

Introduction

Olives are found growing wild in the Himalayan region comprising Kullu, Shimla, Solan, and Sirmour districts of Himachal Pradesh. It is extensively used for the extraction of oil from its fruits. Its oil is edible, possessing a valuable therapeutic character. About 92% of its production is used for oil extraction. The main producers of olive oil are Spain, Tunisia, Italy, Greece, Turkey, Syria, Algeria, Morocco, Egypt, and the adjoining gulf countries. Olive cultivation in India has been limited to the north Sub-Himalayan region, which includes Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh.

Introduction

Papaya has long been known as the wonder fruit of the tropics and is one of the five major fruit crops of the tropical world. Papaya fruits throughout the year are a remunerative fruit crop which is grown in almost every part of the country. Next to bananas, it has the highest yield and income per unit. It is generally grown as a fruit plant in kitchen gardens, home gardens, or nutrition gardens and later as a commercial fruit. Papaya is usually dioecious, but hermaphrodite and gynodioecious types are also Recognized. It is the most remunerative crop (highest net return/unit area) of any other fruit crop. India is the 4^th largest producer in the world. Karnataka has the highest production and productivity in India. A valuable proteolytic enzyme is called papain, which helps in the digestion of protein-rich foods. Transgenic PRSV resistant varieties: Sunup and Rainbow were created from coat protein genes grown in Hawaii in 1992.

Introduction

Commercial in South Africa, Srilanka, Kenya, Cameroon, Hawai, Zimbabwe and Australia. In India, it is growing wild in Nilgeria, Wynad, Kodaiknal, Coorg and Malabar. It is being cultivated in H.P. Nagaland and Mizoram. Brazil is the world’s largest producer. A rich source of vitamin A, it also contains fair amounts of sodium, magnesium, sulphur and chlorides. It gives a very good squash and is used in jam, jelly, nectar and ice cream making. Dried flowers contain an alkaloid called ‘Passiflorin’, which is used for relieving pain and inducing sleepness.

Introduction

Phalsa is a shrub or small tree of Indian origin. Subtropical bushy fruit plants. It is a very hardy fruit, and hence can be planted on marginal soils, where the rest of the fruits can not be grown. Its cultivation is more popular in the vicinity of cities and towns. Phalsa fruit is liked for its acidic taste, coloured squash and syrup. A woody perennial, arid zone fruit crop. suitable for intercropping in mango orchards. Phalsa leaf extract has antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Phalsa fruit has a short shelf life, suitable only for local marketing. It is cultivated on a commercial scale, mainly in the northern and western states of India.

Introduction

It can be grown as a mixed crop in most of the orchards, as a hedge plant or as a pure crop. monocotyledonous, monocarpic, xerophytic, CAM, herbaceous perennial herb. It is drought-tolerant and suitable for marginal lands. Pineapple does not contain starch. Pineapple is a Spanish word, botanically it is called syncarpous (Sorosis) fruit. Brazilian Pineapple, Ananas microstachys is considered to ancestor of cultivated (A. comosuss). The pineapple is a tropical fruit and is known as the “Golden Queen” all over the globe. It can be grown as a mixed crop in most of the orchards, as a hedge plant or as a pure crop. Fruits are relished as dessert in the form of slices, either fresh or canned, juice, squash, jam and mixed jam. Candy is prepared from fruit cores.

Introduction

Winter hardy and highly drought tolerant. This is an excellent choice crop for the arid and semi-arid conditions of India. Maharashtra is the leading state in India for pomegranate cultivation: Maharashtra. NRC of Pomegranate, Kesaon, Solapur, Maharashtra: Established in 2005. Because of the presence of anthocyanin, the aril and skin have a red color. Dried seeds with pulp are known as ‘Anardana’: It is widely used as a condiment, prepared from a sour type of wild pomegranate is called as Daru. Commonly found in the Himalayan region, has a long productive cycle and is resistant to bacterial blight. Double flower type ornamental plant in it modification of stamens into petals makes them look like rose flowers. Nana or dwarf type is called Bonsai pomegranate, exclusively used for ornamental purposes.

Introdution

Rambutan is called “hairy litchi” as the fruits have red-soft spines on the surface. Fruits are produced in bunches and possess long, thick, soft hairs on their surface and are hence called rambutans after the word ‘rambut’, meaning strands of hair in Malay. The external colour of the fruits is attractive in red and yellow. The white is translucent and sub-arid. Its appearance differs from the litchi by having red and soft spines (hairs) covering the whole surface of the fruit. It has since spread to Southeast Asia, Central America, and Africa. The Rambutan-growing countries are Thailand, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, and India.

Introduction

Sapota is a delicious fruit introduced from tropical America. It is also known as sapodilla or chiku in India. Sapota fruits are recommended to adult patients ailing from tuberculosis and children from primary complex. This offers high economic returns even under marginal land and low input management.

Introduction

It is the most popular tree found cultivated throughout India as stray plantations or avenues. Regular orcharding is wanted but common in waste land. The wood is used in cart wheels and rice pounders. Oil mills, etc. The bark is used in tanning. The tender leaves and flowers are eaten as a vegetable. The pulp of fruit is used for culinary purposes. The seeds are rich in pectin. India is the major producer and consumer of this fruit in the world. The seeds are rich in pectin. India is the major producer and consumer of this fruit in the world. Immature fruits are used for chutney, and ripe fruit pulp is an important ingredient in south Indian vegetable dishes to induce sourness. Tamarind is indigenous to tropical Africa and some parts of South India.

Introduction

The fruit is a hard-shelled, many-seeded berry with its pinkish brown, aromatic sour and sweet pulp being the edible portion of the seeds embedded in it. The tree is one of the hardy trees of arid and semi-arid regions.

Temperate Fruit Plants

Temperate fruit plants are requiring specific climate. They can tolerate both diurnal and seasonal wide fluctuations in temperature and are grown only where winter is distinctly cold. They require a specific chilling temperature for a certain period to break bud dormancy and to initiate the bud break. These fruit plants are generally deciduous and suitable for higher elevations as they can withstand frost. Examples are: apple, pear, plum, apricot, almond, peach, strawberry, walnut, pecan nut and cherry.

Classification of temperate fruits: Fruits can be classified on several bases, but their classification on the basis of climatic adaptability and morphological features.

Introduction

The almond is an important temperate nut fruit with widespread popularity for its kernels throughout the world. It is native to the central Asian mountain areas (India, Iran and Pakistan). Apart from raw consumption as an edible kernel of the drupe, it also has industrial applications as a major ingredient in many manufactured products. The kernels are a rich source of fat (58.9%), protein (20.8 %), carbohydrates (10.5%), and a rich source of Vitamin E. Almond oil contains 49% oil, 62% oleic acid, 24% linoleic acid, and 6% palmitic acid. Its oil, called badamroghan, is considered to have high nutritional, medicinal and industrial value. Almond oil is used in confectionary and also for pharmaceutical and cosmetic preparation. Kernels after blanching, roasting, frying and salting are very delicious and in great demand. Green almond kernels are also consumed in the milky stage.

Introduction

The apple (Malus x domestica) is an important temperate fruit and is grown in areas where winters are cold, springs are frost free, and summers are mild. The main ancestor of cultivated apple M x domestica is M. sylvestrii, Thomas Andrew Knight produced the first apple cultivar of known parentage. Apple is disomic and has complex polyploidy, tetraploid and partially hexaploid. The apple (Malus x domestica) is the most widely grown temperate fruit in the world. First in India, the apple was introduced by Captain Lee in 1865 in the Kullu Valley of H.P. Later on, red-coloured Delicious group varieties were introduced at Kotgarh in the Shimla district of Himachal Pradesh in 1917 by American missionary Mr. Satya Nand Stokes. The region that includes South Western Asia, the Caucasus, Soviet Central Asia, and the Hindu-Kush Himalayan region is thought to be the primary centre of apple origin. The apple plant is deciduous without spiny branches. Climacteric fruit. Dry temperate region is most suitable for apple cultivation in India.

Introduction

Its fruits are attractive, delicious and highly nutritious. This is a temperate crop that is drought-resistant and salt-tolerant. largest Producer-Turkey. It is a rich source of protein and oil (40-45 %). Use it for tumer and ulcer treatment. highest antioxidant content (carotenoids) Laetrile, a purported alternative treatment for cancer, is extracted from apricot seeds. Moor Park one of the best apricots for outdoor cultivation in a small garden. It is very rich in Vitamin-A and also contains more carbohydrates, proteins, and phosphorus than the majority of common fruits. They are mostly used as dessert, and because of their perishable nature, they can be canned, frozen and dried. The fruits are also processed into jam, nectar and squash. The kernels, which are either sweet or bitter depending upon the variety, are a valuable by-product. Sweet kernels are used in confectionary, while bitter kernels are used for oil extraction and raising rootstocks. It is very rich in Vitamin-A: 3600 IU and Thiamine: 217 mg/100 g.

Introduction

Cherries occupy an important position among temperate fruits all over the world. Cultivated cherries are divided into two main groups, i.e., sweet cherries (Prunus avium) and sour cherries (P. cerasus). Cherries are rich in protein, sugar, potassium, calcium, iron and zinc. Sweet cherries are believed to have originated in an area between the Black and Caspian Seas in Southern Europe. The earliest records indicate that it was first domesticated in Greece around 300 BC. It spread to Italy from Greece where it was established as a fruit crop by 37 BC. Early setter’s brought seeds to North America and parts of South America. In India, it was introduced by British setter’s in Kashmir, Kullu and Shimla hills during the pre-independence era. World leading breeding of cherry: John Innes Horticultural Institution, Merton. A putative ancestor of cultivated sweet cherries: Anthocynins (antioxidants) are the red pigment found in cherries.

Introduction

The chestnut is similar to the acorn of oak. Chestnut trees have been growing in the temperate climate of the world for more than 4,000 years for beauty, fuel and shelter. The sweet chestnut is some nutritious low-fat food rich in vitamin B. Freshly harvested nuts contain about 50 per cent moisture, 40-42 per cent carbohydrates, 2.9 per cent proteins and about 1.5 per cent fat. In addition to providing a good food source for humans, chestnuts also provide food for a number of wild life species. Its wood is durable and used for timber and furniture work. Chestnuts and chinquapins are exceptions to all other nut trees in that they contain little oil and are high in carbohydrates, particularly in starch.

Introduction and Origin

It is typically a temperate zone nut crop and is mostly grown in Turkey, Italy, Spain, Germany, France and England. Turkish hazelnut production of 625,000 tons’ accounts for approximately 75 % of worldwide production. The common hazel (Corylus avellana) is native to Europe and Western Asia. In Himachal Pradesh, it is found growing wild in the Pangi region of Chamba district, where it is locally known as Thangi. Hazelnut is also known as cobnut and filbert. In the UK, a distinction is made between filbert, which has a husk longer than the nut, and cobnut, in which the husks are shorter than the nut. Hazelnuts are extensively used in confectionary to make praline and are also used in combination with chocolate truffles.

Introduction

This dioecious fruiting vine is native to the Yangtze River valley in south and central China. This dioecious fruiting vine. Seed requires stratification. Although this fruit vine is originated in China, yet its full economic potential was exploited by the New Zealand which accounts for over 70 per cent of world trade. In other countries of the world, its cultivation gained momentum after 1960, and now it is cultivated on a commercial scale in the China, New Zealand, Italy, USA, Japan, France, Germany and Australia. In India it is grown in mid hills of Himachal Pradesh, J& K, Uttarkhand, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Nagaland and Nilgiri hills of south India. It was first introduced at Lal Bagh garden, Banglore, but the plant did not come to bear due to a lack of chilling requirement during winter for its bud break. Later on, in 1963, it was introduced in the Shimla hills, where the plant came to bear in 1969. The kiwifruit is rusty brown with a hairy surface and looks like a sapota fruit. Fruit has a refreshing and delicate flavour, a pleasing aroma and high nutritive and medicinal value. It is high in vitamin C, has more potassium, phosphorus, and iron than any other food, and has a low calorie count.

Introduction

The macadamia nut (Macadamia ternifolia) is a fruit from Australia that was recently introduced into India. The macadamia nut is a unique, world’s finest dessert nut characterized by its creamy colour, delicate flavour and crunchy nature. Having two important species, M. integrifolia and M. tetraphylla where the former one is adapted to a subtropical climate and the latter to temperate regions. Another species, M. ternifolia, produces bitter, inedible nuts. Hawaii is the world’s largest producer, followed by Australia, South Africa, Guatemala and Kenya.

Introduction

It comes to the market early in the season, particularly the low chilling peaches and growers get remunerative prices due to the non-availability of other fresh fruits in the market. It has high nutritive value, being rich in protein, essential amino acids, minerals, and vitamins. Peaches originated in China, where its culture dates back to 3000 years. Although it is not exactly known how and when the peach reached India, it is opined that some traders might have carried over the stones of peach from China to Kashmir. Peaches were introduced by Mr. Alexander Coutts in Himachal Pradesh in 1870. Later on, its cultivation was initiated in the mid-hills of Himachal Pradesh on the advice of an American horticulturist, Prof. R. W. Hodgson. Some low-chilling varieties of peach were also introduced at Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana in 1968 from California. peach with a strong flavour and aroma.

Introduction

Pears are next only to apples in importance, acreage, production and varietal diversity amongst the temperate fruits. The genus Pyrus probably originated in the mountainous regions of Western China. It is a rich source of carbohydrate as sugars, starch and cellulose and minerals like calcium (8 mg/100 g) phosphorous (15 mg/100 g) and sulphur (14 mg/100 g).

Introduction

The pecan is a valuable horticultural gift from North America to the world. In the USA, it is considered the “Queen of nuts” because of its value both as a wild and cultivated nut. As compared to other nut fruits, which have been grown since time immemorial, pecans have been under cultivation only for about one hundred years but have gained enormous popularity. The pecan occupies fifth rank among the leading tree nuts because of its excellent nutty flavor. Pecan nuts are a rich source of fat (72 g), protein (9 g), carbohydrates (15 g) and minerals. Pecan is usually taken roasted or salted to supplement normal diet. Almost 90 % of the nuts are sold shelled and the rest in shell. The nuts are commonly used to add aroma, flavor and crispness, a rich color, or to garnish a large number of dishes. However, most commonly, it is used in baking dishes and in ice cream. Pecan shell, a bay product, is also used to manufacture tannin, charcoal and abrasives in hand soap. The pecan tree has value as a timber too, due to its strength and hardiness. There is a great demand for its veneer and lumber in decorative paneling, fine furniture, and flooring, as well as in pallet manufacturing. good source of phosphoric acid. The most important nut fruit in the world, 5^th in production.

Introduction

It was introduced from China into Japan in ancient times, where most of its improvement work has been done. The term “kaki” is Japanese. In the nineteen century, it was introduced from China to many other countries, namely in the USA, Brazil, Italy, New Zealand, Israel, Australia and South East Asia. In India, the European settlers introduced persimmon in hilly states, namely Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir in 1921. In India, it is mostly cultivated in the Kullu valley, where it was introduced. At present, it is grown on a limited scale in Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand. Ripe fruit is delicious, flesh is sweet and jelly-like. The entire fruit is edible except the seeds and calyx. Hexaploid fruit crops, deciduous and monoecious fruit crops. Fruits are highly astringent due to their tannin content. Flowers appear in spring on new growth. Types of flowers: male, female and bisexual. Cross-pollination, Mode of pollination: Insects.

Introduction

In India, pistachio cultivation is mainly grown for its edible nuts and it is a deciduous tree in the family Anacardiaceae. On the tree, pistachios grow in grape-like clusters, and the shell has the pistachio inside. The leaves of the pistachio tree are pinnate and composed of five individual oval leaflets. The pistachio tree flowers are small, brownish-green in colour, and lack petals. Pistachio trees can reach up to 20 feet in the wild but are generally smaller under cultivation. It is a famous dry fruit, widely loved by people in India.

Introduction

Plum is an important temperate fruit, which is used as a fresh fruit as well as in preserved form. It is next to the peaches in economic importance amongst the stone fruits. It requires a certain period of chilling during winters to break dormancy, so it is cultivated in areas where winters are cool. Fruits are a rich source of minerals, vitamins, sugars and organic acids, in addition to protein, fat and carbohydrates. The types of plums with high sugar content above 18% are known as prunes which can be dried with pit. In India, plum was introduced by Alexander Coutts in 1870 in Himachal Pradesh. After evaluation, only Japanese plum has been recommended for commercial cultivation in the mid hills of the temperate region of the north-western Himalayas. Some low-chilling varieties of plum were also introduced at Punjab Agriculture University, Ludhiana.

Introduction

The cultivated strawberry is one of the world’s most important soft fruits. Fruit is technically known as an accessory fruit in that the fleshy part is derived not from the ovaries (achenes) but from the receptacle. Strawberries are a very nutritive fruit. It is a rich source of vitamins and minerals. Strawberry fruit contains about 0.5% pectin. The flavour of the fruit is due to the presence of volatile esters. Most of the fruits are consumed fresh and some are processed into jams, chutneys, squash, and other foodstuffs. It is used in large-scale ice cream making. The fruits are canned and shipped in frozen conditions to western countries. It is a fruit plant that is monoecious, has a short day, and grows quickly. Strawberry industries in America were started at the beginning of the 18th century, and today nearly 50% of the world’s production is in Europe.

Introduction

The wild seedling of walnut has been found growing in west regions right from the Carpathian Mountains in Eastern Europe across Turkey, Iraq, Iran, Southern USSR and Afghanistan to the North-Western Himalayas. It is believed to have originated in Iran and the areas surrounding it. The Returning army of Alexander brought it to Europe from Iran. Almost all parts of the walnut tree are utilized. The fruit has excellent flavour and is mainly consumed as a dried fruit, eaten for table purposes. The kernels contain about 60–75% fat and oil, 16% carbohydrate, and 15% protein. Jammu and Kashmir is the largest walnut producing state in India and the USA is a leading producer of walnuts.

Plantation crops: Plantation crop are a group of commercial crops that are perennial in nature, cultivated extensively in tropical and subtropical situations that need employment of labour throughout the year and whose products are usually consumed after processing. ex. Tea, Coffee, Coconut, Rubber, Cocoa, Areca Nut, and Oil Palm.

Introduction

The Arecanut palm is cultivated primarily for its kernel obtained from the fruit, which is chewed when it is tender, ripe or processed. Despite being native to the Malayan Archipelago, the Philippines, and other East Indian Islands.Only in India is it under scientific cultivation. India is the world’s largest producer of arecanut, contributing nearly 74 % of world production. India is the world’s largest consumer of arecanut (accounting to 89 % of world production). Other uses for arecanut other than chewing are negligible. Its export prospects are also very limited. Therefore, the present policy is not to expand the area under arecanut but to adopt intensive cultivation and take up replanting of the aged and unproductive gardens. Inter and mixed cropping in arecanut gardens is advocated to augment the income from the existing arecanut groves. Alkaloids present in arecanut, Arecoline is the main and physiologically most active alkaloid present to an extent of 0.07 to 0.1 per cent.

Introduction

The betelvine is a perennial dioecious climber and is believed to have originated in Central and Eastern Malaysia. It is mainly cultivated in South East Asian countries, viz., India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Thailand, Philippines, etc. It is one of the important commercial crops grown mostly by small and marginal farmers in the states of Assam, West Bengal, Bihar, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Kerala, Uttar Pradesh and Orissa with an estimated area of 53,539 ha (Ray, 2008). Annual production is worth Rs. 9000 million and estimated that about 20 million people earn their livelihood directly or indirectly partly or fully from production, processing, handling, transportation and marketing of betel leaves in India. Betel leaves worth 30-40 million rupees are exported to countries like Bahrain, Canada, Great Britain, Nepal, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and many other European countries.

Introduction

Cashew is native to South Eastern Brazil, from where it was introduced to the Malabar coast of India in the sixteenth century to cover bare hills and for soil conservation. It gained commercial importance in 1920. African countries produce large quantities of cashew nuts, but they are not processed into consumable products because of difficulties in organizing the native labour. India imports raw cashew nuts which are processed and converted into cashew kernels and cashew shell liquid and re-exported to countries like the USA, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia and Russia. The cashew kernel of India is of the highest quality in the world. India is the largest producer and exporter of cashews in the world. India stands first in area and production in the world. Indian cashew export: 63 per cent of global cashew trade. The national average is 835 kg per ha (i.e., around 5.50 kg per tree) and this is far less than the achievable level of 2000 kg per ha (i.e., around 12.50 kg per tree). Maharashtra state is having the highest productivity of about 1337 kg per ha (mainly due to adoption of drip irrigation and mulching techniques), while productivity in West Bengal has come down (1140 kg/ha), mainly because of old plantations. Due to its nutritive value and commerce, it is designated as “zero cholesterol nut or white gold”. The cashew nut is a unique combination of fat (47 %), protein (21 %), carbohydrates (22 %) and vitamins (10 %). India contributes about 65 % of the world’s exports. The USA is the largest importer of cashew kernels.