Gulkand is a traditional sweet preserve made from rose petals and sugar, widely consumed in India for its cooling properties and health benefits. With increasing demand for natural and herbal products, gulkand farming and production is emerging as a lucrative agribusiness opportunity.
In this blog, we’ll cover how to grow roses specifically for gulkand, the process of making gulkand, its health benefits, and how you can profit from this farming venture.
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What is Gulkand?
Gulkand is a sweet, aromatic preserve made by mixing fresh rose petals with sugar and letting the mixture ferment naturally under sunlight. It has a pleasant pinkish hue and is valued in Ayurveda for its medicinal qualities, including aiding digestion and cooling the body during hot seasons.
Step 1: Choosing the Right Rose Variety for Gulkand
The most suitable rose for gulkand making is Rosa damascena, also called the Damask rose, known for its rich fragrance and tender petals. Other local fragrant varieties can also be used but Rosa damascena yields the best quality gulkand.
Step 2: Growing Roses for Gulkand
Soil: Well-drained loamy soil with good organic content is ideal. Avoid waterlogged or saline soils.
Climate: Cool to moderate climates are best. Rose plants require moderate sunlight and protection from extreme heat.
Planting: Plant healthy rose saplings 30 to 45 cm apart, ideally in winter or early spring.
Irrigation: Regular watering is essential but avoid overwatering. Drip irrigation is preferred for water efficiency.
Fertilization: Apply balanced organic manure and fertilizers to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Pest & Disease Control: Monitor regularly and use organic or approved chemical treatments as necessary.
Step 3: Harvesting Rose Petals
Harvest rose petals early in the morning when they are fresh and fragrant. Petals should be carefully plucked to avoid damage. Use only healthy and disease-free flowers for best gulkand quality.
Step 4: Making Gulkand — Step-by-Step
1. Clean the rose petals by gently rinsing with water and draining excess moisture.
2. Mix rose petals with powdered sugar in a 1:1 ratio by weight.
3. Transfer the mixture into a clean, dry glass jar or container.
4. Keep the jar in direct sunlight for 10 to 15 days, stirring once daily to avoid fermentation issues.
5. The mixture will gradually thicken and transform into gulkand with a sweet aroma and pink color.
6. Once ready, store the gulkand in airtight containers in a cool, dry place.
Health Benefits of Gulkand
Improves Digestion: Helps reduce acidity and indigestion.
Cooling Effect: Cools the body, especially beneficial during hot weather.
Skin Health: Enhances complexion and reduces skin inflammation.
Stress Relief: Acts as a mild relaxant and reduces anxiety.
Respiratory Health: Helps alleviate cough and throat irritation.
Detoxification: Assists in flushing out toxins from the body.
Profitability of Gulkand Farming
Initial Investment
Rose saplings, soil preparation, irrigation setup, fertilizers, and labor — approximately INR 1,00,000 per acre.
Production
1 acre can yield around 8-10 quintals (800-1000 kg) of fresh rose petals.
Approximately 150-200 kg of gulkand can be produced per acre.
Market Price & Revenue
Gulkand sells for INR 400-600 per kg in retail markets.
Additional revenue can be generated by producing rose water and other rose-based products.
Estimated Profit
Gross revenue can range from INR 6,00,000 to 12,00,000 per acre per season.
After deducting expenses, net profit can be between INR 5,00,000 to 10,00,000.
Marketing Tips for Gulkand Products
Use attractive and hygienic packaging to appeal to customers.
Promote gulkand as a natural Ayurvedic product with health benefits.
Utilize social media platforms and e-commerce websites for wider reach.
Collaborate with local stores, Ayurvedic shops, and health food outlets.
Participate in organic and herbal product fairs.
Conclusion
Gulkand farming is a profitable and sustainable agricultural business that blends traditional knowledge with modern marketing. With careful cultivation, quality production, and effective marketing, farmers and entrepreneurs can tap into the growing demand for natural health products and earn significant income.
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