Published May 05, 2023
Euryale ferox, commonly known as the well-known makhana, the prickly waterlily, the foxnut, or the gorgon nut, is a perennial member of the Nymphaeaceae family. It, like the lotus, flourishes in water that stagnates such as ponds, swamps, and wetlands in tropical environments.
Makhana cultivation is most popular in the Indian states- Assam, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh to name a few. Bihar, on the contrary, is the largest producer worldwide of Makhana, accounting for 90% of global production.
Create ponds or marshy wastelands on your farm and spread seeds from past crops, markets, or online portals. The overall depth of the pond may vary from 4-6 feet, and it must constantly have water that remains stagnant.
The seeds undergo drying in full sunlight exposure to evaporate the moisture, releasing up to 31% of the wetness. The makhana can be temporarily kept for up to 20 to 24 days.
The most challenging component of makhana farming is harvesting. It requests that seeds be collected from the sludge at the pond's bottom and requires the use of qualified employees.
During the months of February and April, makhana plants can be treated similarly to other nursery plants and planted on the water field.