Farmer transforms fortune growing african marigold flowers:Earns ₹1 lakh per acre; used by company for medicine and fertilizer

A farmer is transforming his fortunes by cultivating African marigold flowers in Multai of Betul district. Growing these flowers on one acre of land yields him around Rs 1 lakh per acre. These flowers are later used to manufacture medicines and fertilizers. In Dainik Bhaskar’s Smart Farmer series, we talk about Kashinath Khade, a resident of Sirsawadi village in Multai. Let’s hear his success story in Kashinath’s own words…. First-year profit brings hope Kashinath explained that he owns 9 acres of land and has been farming for 25 years, primarily growing traditional crops like soybean, wheat, and maize. “Due to unpredictable weather and pest infestations, earning a stable profit was always difficult. I was looking for an alternative crop to increase income,” he said. Last year, a private company from Pandhurna approached his village, offering to help farmers grow flowers for fertilizer and medicine production. The company promised to provide seeds and technical guidance, and purchase the harvested flowers at Rs 10 per kilogram directly from the farm. “The offer seemed ideal,” he added. Low initial investment, high returns The company provided African marigold seeds at Rs 2,700 per acre, while additional expenses for fertilizers and other inputs cost approximately Rs 10,000 per acre. Kashinath said, “The crop matures in about one and a half months. Each crop can be harvested around 10 times, and in the first year, I planted African marigold on four acres. The profit per acre comes to around ₹1 lakh. Most importantly, it is a cash crop, ensuring immediate income. Next year, I plan to expand cultivation to all 9 acres.” Weekly harvest of 5,000 kilograms The cultivation process begins with a nursery preparation to grow saplings, followed by transplanting after one month. Regular irrigation and fertilization are maintained, and organic fertilizers are used to control pests and diseases. Flowering begins after about two months, with approximately 5,000 kilograms of flowers harvested weekly, continuing for 2–3 months. Company handles entire supply chain According to the contract, farmers are not allowed to sell the flowers independently. Every week, company representatives collect the flowers, and payment is made within a few days. “My entire family, including my wife and two children, participate in harvesting. We have already received ₹2 lakh so far,” Kashinath said. The flowers are harvested in the evening to prevent damage. The company then uses the marigolds to manufacture medicines and fertilizers, completing the crop-to-product cycle. ​