Arka Chandan
An ICAR-IIHR bush-type (short-vine) variety bred for smaller plots and higher planting density, with medium-sized, good-keeping-quality fruit.
Quick facts
- Crop
- Pumpkin (Kaddu)
- Type
- Open-pollinated
- Season
- Zaid / summer
- Maturity period
- 95–110 days
- Expected yield
- 250–300 q/ha
- Suitable soil
- Loam
About this variety
Arka Chandan is a bush-type (short-vine) pumpkin variety from ICAR-IIHR, Bengaluru, bred as an alternative to the normally sprawling pumpkin vine. Because the vine stays compact rather than running several metres, it can be planted at a higher density than a normal long-vine variety, making it a practical choice for growers with smaller plots who cannot spare the wide spacing pumpkin usually needs. Fruit is medium-sized with good keeping quality once cured.
Key characteristics
Sowing & cultivation
- SpacingCan be planted closer than normal long-vine varieties given its compact bush growth
Yield & maturity
Maturity period
95–110 days
Expected yield
250–300 q/ha
Actual yield depends on sowing time, soil, irrigation, weather, seed quality and crop management.
Pest & disease considerations
Major diseases
- No special resistance claimed
Advantages & considerations
Why farmers may choose it
- Compact, bush-type vine suited to smaller plots and higher planting density
- Good keeping quality once properly cured
- A practical choice where land is limited and normal pumpkin spacing is impractical
Things to consider
- Yield (250–300 q/ha) runs somewhat below the heaviest long-vine varieties
- No special disease resistance claimed
Suitable regions
States this variety is recommended for — check locally, since a state can have more than one recommended zone.
- Karnataka
- southern plains