FB-Valayapatti is a dual-purpose drumstick (moringa) variety grown for both leaf and pod production. Foliage is dark green and tender with intense flavour and high nutritional value, and the variety is capable of three harvests a year with roughly 900-1,100 pods per tree. It is an annual type widely cultivated across dry and semi-arid regions, and with proper maintenance and regular pruning plants stay productive for up to 50 years.
Key characteristics
| Type | Dual purpose - leaf production and pod production |
| Foliage | Dark green, tender, intense flavour, high nutritional value |
| Harvests | Three per year |
| Pods per tree | Approx. 900-1,100 (depending on season and cultural practice) |
| Adaptability | Annual variety; performs well under dry and semi-arid conditions |
| Productive life | Up to 50 years with proper maintenance and regular pruning |
Agronomy
| First pods | 6 months after planting; maximum commercial yield after 18 months |
| Sowing | Direct seed sowing at a depth of 2-3 cm |
| Spacing | Leaf purpose 1.5 x 1.5 m; pod purpose 2.5 x 2.5 m |
| Pruning for leaf | Initial pruning 50-60 days after planting - cut the main stem at 1.5-2.5 ft height to promote branching |
| Climate and soil | Tropical and semi-arid climates; best on well-drained sandy loam to red soil; tolerates drought and low rainfall |
| Irrigation | Light irrigation immediately after sowing; minimum water thereafter. Once established the deep roots tolerate drought - avoid waterlogging. |
| Nutrients | Apply well-decomposed FYM or compost during land preparation; a light application of organic or balanced fertiliser after each pruning improves regrowth |
Yield and maturity figures depend on season, region and cultural practice. Seed rate and spacing follow Indian agricultural practice and Farmson R&D trial data.
