There are several vegetables that are widely grown outside India but have limited commercial cultivation in India. However, with the right techniques, they can be successfully grown in India. Here are some unique vegetables, their growing requirements, and how they can be cultivated in India:
1. Artichoke (Cynara scolymus)
Major Producers:
- USA (California), Italy, Spain, France
Growing Conditions:
- Cool Mediterranean climate (15°C – 20°C)
- Well-drained, nutrient-rich soil with a pH of 6.0 – 7.5
Cultivation in India:
- Best grown in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Kashmir, and Nilgiri Hills
- Greenhouse/polyhouse farming in warmer areas
- Requires deep plowing and mulching for moisture retention
2. Asparagus (Asparagus officinalis)
Major Producers:
- China, Peru, Mexico, Germany
Growing Conditions:
- Temperate to subtropical regions, requires cold winters
- Sandy loam soil with good drainage
Cultivation in India:
- Suitable for Himachal Pradesh, North-East, Uttarakhand
- Requires raised beds and drip irrigation
- Grown from root crowns or seeds
3. Kale (Brassica oleracea var. acephala)
(Discussed earlier – can be grown in winter or polyhouses in India)
4. Brussels Sprouts (Brassica oleracea var. gemmifera)
Major Producers:
- USA, Netherlands, UK, Belgium
Growing Conditions:
- Cold climate (10°C – 18°C)
- Requires well-drained, fertile soil
Cultivation in India:
- Best grown in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Kashmir, and North-East
- Can be grown in high-altitude regions and polyhouses
- Requires staking for plant support
5. Broccolini (Hybrid of Broccoli & Chinese Kale)
Major Producers:
- USA, Japan, Australia
Growing Conditions:
- Prefers cool temperatures (15°C – 22°C)
- Requires organic matter-rich soil
Cultivation in India:
- Can be grown in hill states and controlled environments
- Requires mulching and organic fertilizers
6. Celery (Apium graveolens)
Major Producers:
- USA, China, Mexico
Growing Conditions:
- Prefers cool and moist conditions
- Grows best in loamy soil with high organic content
Cultivation in India:
- Grown in Punjab, Haryana, and parts of Himachal Pradesh
- Requires continuous irrigation and shade nets
7. Leeks (Allium ampeloprasum)
Major Producers:
- France, UK, Belgium, Netherlands
Growing Conditions:
- Prefers cool temperatures (15°C – 22°C)
- Requires deep, sandy loam soil
Cultivation in India:
- Can be grown in Himachal Pradesh, Kashmir, and North-East India
- Needs hilling technique (covering stalks with soil)
8. Rhubarb (Rheum rhabarbarum)
Major Producers:
- UK, USA, Canada, Germany
Growing Conditions:
- Needs cold winters for dormancy
- Requires moist, fertile soil with good drainage
Cultivation in India:
- Suitable for Himalayan regions (requires winter chilling)
- Can be grown in controlled conditions (cold storage-based farming)
9. Endive (Cichorium endivia)
Major Producers:
- France, Belgium, Italy
Growing Conditions:
- Prefers temperate climates
- Requires fertile, well-drained soil
Cultivation in India:
- Can be grown in winter months in North India
- Needs shade net farming in warmer regions
10. Fennel Bulb (Foeniculum vulgare var. azoricum)
Major Producers:
- Italy, France, USA
Growing Conditions:
- Requires mild winters and warm summers
- Prefers sandy loam soil with good organic content
Cultivation in India:
- Can be grown in Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan (winter season)
- Requires raised beds and drip irrigation
Techniques to Grow These Vegetables in India
- Polyhouse Farming – Maintains temperature and humidity for cool-season crops.
- Drip Irrigation – Ensures moisture control for water-sensitive crops.
- Hydroponics/Aeroponics – Can grow many of these vegetables without soil.
- Mulching & Raised Beds – Conserves moisture and improves aeration.
- Vertical & Terrace Farming – Ideal for urban growers in India.