Urbanisation is revolutionarily transforming the nature of agricultural needs. Currently, the total population in urban regions represents 35% of Indian citizens and is likely to surge to 43.2% by 2035. Consequently, demand for fresh produce continues to accelerate. Against this shrinking available farmland, a solution has emerged in the shape of the Brimato, which is a single plant with two grafted crops - brinjal and tomato - thus capable of providing both in an equally sustainable manner.
Special Features of Brimato
The Brimato plant combines IC 111056 brinjal rootstock, known for its vigorous growth and waterlogging tolerance, with Kashi Sandesh (brinjal hybrid) and Kashi Aman (improved tomato variety) as scions. This dual grafting ensures:
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Efficient space utilization for urban growers.
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Early fruiting, yielding both vegetables within 60-70 days post-transplantation.
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Higher yields, with 35.7 tonnes of brinjal and 37.3 tonnes of tomato per hectare.
Soil and Planting Propagation
Brimato performs well in soil rich with organic matter and good drainage. The recommended ratio is soil: sand: vermicompost: cocopeat = 2:1:1:1. Seedlings at the age of 25-35 days are grafted for brinjal and 20-25 days for tomato. Good grafting techniques include cleft or splice for the unions to be healthy. Grafting care involves keeping 85% relative humidity and temperatures of 25–30°C for 4-5 days after grafting.
Nutrient Management
Brimato requires higher nutrient input compared to standalone crops. A balanced application of 150:80:100 kg/ha of NPK and 20 tonnes of FYM per hectare is recommended. Additional care is taken to balance nutrient distribution between the brinjal and tomato scions, ensuring healthy growth for both.
Watering and Irrigation
Adequate watering is essential for consistent growth. Irregular watering, brimato plants require 7 to 10 irrigations spread at 12 to 20 days intervals depending upon prevailing weather conditions. Maintaining a soil moisture depletion at below 20% ensures a level of optimal yields. To avoid waterlogging, drips are preferred as systems for efficiency.
Pest and Disease Control
Brimato plants are susceptible to common pests and diseases of both brinjal and tomato such as whiteflies, jassids, fruit borers, and fungal diseases like wilt and Phomopsis blight. Regular pest monitoring and the use of biological or chemical controls, with timely weeding, help in maintaining healthy plants.
Harvesting and Uses
Brimato plants start fruiting 15-20 days earlier than non-grafted plants. Harvesting begins around 60-70 days after transplantation, with 5-6 rounds of picking extending until mid-March. Each plant produces 7-10 brinjals and 40-50 tomatoes, making it ideal for household consumption or commercial purposes.
Market Price and Economic Potential
Brimato cultivation is economically viable, yielding a net profit of Rs 6.44 lakh per hectare with a B: C ratio of 1.91. The selling price averages Rs 1,500 per quintal for brinjal and Rs 1,200 per quintal for tomato. The dual-cropping model is particularly lucrative for urban farmers and entrepreneurs looking to maximize output from limited spaces.
The Brimato plant exemplifies innovative agriculture, addressing urban food challenges through dual-cropping technology. It leverages limited urban space to provide high yields and significant profits. By promoting self-sufficiency and reducing dependence on rural supplies, Brimato fosters sustainable urban farming. With commercialization efforts underway, this innovation is poised to revolutionize vegetable production in urban landscapes, catering to the rising demands of a growing population.
