Garlic farming is a science that requires the right climate, soil, and care. Farmers in the Kodai hills have perfected this art over generations, transforming garlic farming into a profitable venture.
Ideal Conditions for Garlic Farming
- Altitude: 1200–2000 meters above sea level.
- Climate: Garlic requires cool, moist conditions during growth and dry heat during harvesting.
- Soil: Well-draining loam or sandy soil works best.
Garlic is sown during two seasons in the hills. Farmers plant seeds similar to onion bulbs, and the cloves grow underground. As the plant matures, a blue flower blooms, signaling that the seeds are ready for replanting. With careful planning, farmers can harvest 10-15 tons per acre, generating impressive profits.
From Field to Market
Once harvested, garlic is graded based on size and quality. Large, healthy cloves are packed into sacks and transported to Vadugapatti, where they are sold wholesale. Farmers prefer to sell directly to traders to avoid storage losses. With wholesale garlic fetching around ₹90-100 per kg, farmers can earn close to ₹4 lakh per acre.
