Cost of Broccoli Farming in India – A Practical Guide

If you’re thinking about planting broccoli, the first question on most minds is the money side. How much will it cost to start, and what will the return look like? In this guide we break down every major expense and share simple ways to keep the budget in check.

Breakdown of Major Expenses

Land and Soil Preparation – Whether you rent a plot or own it, the cost per acre can vary from ₹5,000 to ₹15,000 in most Indian states. Preparing the soil for broccoli means plowing, leveling, and adding organic matter. Expect to spend about ₹2,000‑₹3,000 per acre on compost or well‑rotten farmyard manure.

Seeds or Seedlings – Certified broccoli seeds cost roughly ₹250‑₹300 per kilogram. One kilogram can plant about 1,500‑2,000 seedlings, so for a 1‑acre field you’ll need 5‑6 kg, putting the seed cost around ₹1,500‑₹1,800.

Fertilizers and Micronutrients – Broccoli is a heavy feeder. A typical regime uses 60 kg of NPK (20‑20‑20) per acre, costing about ₹3,500. Adding micronutrients (zinc, boron) adds another ₹500‑₹800.

Irrigation – Drip irrigation is popular for broccoli because it saves water and reduces disease. A basic drip system for one acre costs roughly ₹12,000‑₹15,000, plus an annual water charge of ₹2,000‑₹3,000 depending on local rates.

Labor – Labor is the biggest variable. Planting, weeding, pest scouting, and harvesting can take 150‑200 man‑days per acre. At ₹250 per day, labor runs ₹37,500‑₹50,000.

Pest and Disease Management – Organic neem oil or chemical sprays cost about ₹2,000‑₹3,000 per season. Adding traps or bio‑agents may push this to ₹4,000.

Harvesting and Post‑Harvest – Cutting and sorting broccoli heads needs careful handling. Expect another ₹5,000‑₹7,000 for labor and simple cooling equipment.

Transportation and Marketing – Getting your produce to market can add ₹3,000‑₹5,000 per acre, depending on distance and vehicle type.

Adding everything up, a typical 1‑acre broccoli farm in India costs between ₹70,000 and ₹90,000 for the first season. Remember, the initial investment in drip irrigation and soil amendments may be higher, but they pay off over multiple cycles.

Tips to Cut Costs and Raise Profit

Use Farmer‑Group Bulk Buying – Join a local cooperative to purchase seeds, fertilizers, and drip kits in bulk. You can shave 10‑15% off the price.

Recycle Organic Waste – Turn crop residues and kitchen waste into compost on‑site. This reduces the need for purchased manure and improves soil health.

Opt for Raised Beds – Building low raised beds with locally available bricks or stone reduces water logging and cuts irrigation needs by up to 30%.

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) – Regular scouting, using pheromone traps, and planting companion crops like marigold can lower pesticide use and keep costs low.

Harvest at the Right Time – Broccoli heads mature in 60‑70 days. Picking them early prevents over‑maturity, which reduces loss and fetches higher market prices.

Explore Direct Sales – Selling directly to restaurants, schools, or through farmer markets skips middlemen and can increase revenue by 15‑20%.

Finally, keep a simple spreadsheet of every expense and every kilogram of broccoli harvested. Knowing your exact cost per kilogram helps you set a realistic selling price and spot any expense that’s spiraling.

Broccoli farming can be profitable if you watch the numbers closely and use smart, low‑cost practices. With the right planning, you’ll see a solid return on the ₹70‑₹90 K you invest per acre.