Makhana Farming Process : From Soil to Planting Makhana Saplings

Makhana Farming Process: Step-by-Step Guide

Makhana, also known as Fox Nut, is a highly nutritious and popular superfood cultivated mainly in Bihar, especially in Katihar district, which is the world's largest producer of Makhana. The farming process involves a series of traditional and careful steps to ensure a high-quality yield.

Step 1: Preparing the Soil with Water

The first and most crucial step in Makhana farming is preparing the soil. Farmers start by selecting dry soil, preferably in low-lying fields. Using motor pumps, they fill the field with at least 1 feet deep water to create a suitable environment for Makhana cultivation. This water-filled field helps in softening the soil and preparing it for tillage.

Step 2: Ploughing the Soil with Tractors

Once the water has settled in the field, the next step is to plough the soil using tractors. The purpose of ploughing is to mix the soil and water properly, ensuring the field becomes soft and suitable for planting Makhana saplings. This step also helps in removing any unwanted weeds or hard soil patches.

Step 3: Preparing the Field for Planting

After the field has been thoroughly ploughed, it is leveled to create a smooth planting surface. This step is essential to ensure uniform water distribution across the field, which is vital for Makhana plant growth.

Step 4: Planting Makhana Saplings

Now that the field is ready, Makhana saplings are carefully planted. Farmers follow a standard planting distance of 2 square feet between each plant. This spacing allows the Makhana plants to grow properly without overcrowding, ensuring maximum yield and quality. The saplings gradually spread their leaves over the water surface, and after a few months, the Makhana seeds start developing.

Conclusion

The initial stages of Makhana farming — from filling water in dry soil, ploughing with tractors, leveling the field, to planting saplings — are crucial for a successful harvest. This traditional yet efficient method is widely practiced in Katihar, Bihar, contributing significantly to the global Makhana production.

At National Makhana Udyog, we continuously support and promote Makhana farmers to enhance their yield and connect them with global markets.