A Dream Takes Root
The allure of vineyards, immortalized in literature and film, has long captivated Malayalis, often necessitating journeys to Tamil Nadu or Karnataka. However, a remarkable endeavor in Pallom, Kottayam,
is set to change that narrative. Retired bank official T.S. Sreekumar and his brother Sreeprakash have cultivated a thriving vineyard on a modest seven-cent plot right at their residence. This achievement challenges the long-held belief that Kerala's tropical climate is unsuitable for grape cultivation, proving that with dedication and the right approach, even exotic fruits can flourish in the local environment. Sreekumar's inspiration stemmed from his days in Tirupur, where his banking duties exposed him to numerous vineyards, planting the seed of his own home cultivation dream.
Cultivating the Impossible
The success of this home vineyard hinges on understanding and leveraging specific environmental factors. Sreekumar explains that while grapevines require ample direct sunlight, their roots need a cool, moist environment. Kerala, with its abundant sunshine and sufficient humidity, surprisingly offers both these conditions when managed correctly. This realization was a crucial turning point, encouraging the brothers to embark on their ambitious project. Their initial investment stands at Rs 60,000, highlighting the significant financial commitment involved in establishing and maintaining a vineyard, even on a small scale. The brothers are optimistic, planning to expand their cultivation commercially next year, building on the anticipated success of their first harvest.
Nurturing the Vines
Grape cultivation demands consistent and meticulous care, with a productive grapevine offering its yield for approximately 25 years. The brothers have adopted a rigorous fertilization schedule, applying nutrients every 10 to 15 days. Their proprietary fertilizer blend, a mixture of jaggery, plantain, and sterameal, is key to ensuring the desired sweetness in the fruit. This careful nurturing process results in the grapes maturing and becoming ready for harvest within a period of four to five months. The current season's yield is expected to be lower as it's the first year, but the brothers are strategically planning for commercial expansion from the subsequent year, driven by the positive local response and the flourishing growth observed so far.
