The miracle berry is a remarkable fruit that grows mainly in West Africa. After eating it, even sour, spicy or bitter food tastes sweet. This strange quality has made it popular around the world, and it can be grown in Bangladesh too.

It has wide commercial potential in Bangladesh and is becoming popular in hobby gardens and rooftop gardens, much like dragon fruit. So learn the rules before you grow it.

Slightly acidic, well-drained loam soil suits the fruit. The plant grows well in acidic soil (pH 4.5 to 5.8). It prefers partial shade and high humidity, but can tolerate full sun.

Saplings can be bought from online nurseries such as Charulata, Ankur and Bhaibon Nursery, or from farming pages on Facebook, and may also be available at large nurseries in Rajshahi, Dhaka or Chattogram. It is best to buy healthy grafted saplings 6 to 12 months old, which are 1 to 2 feet tall. Each sapling may cost Tk 800 to Tk 1,500.

Grafted saplings are usually better to plant, as they fruit sooner. You can plant in a pot or directly in the ground. For a pot, choose one at least 14 inches across or larger, and give regular water and care.

Apply organic fertiliser (compost or vermicompost) every two to three months. Fertiliser containing nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium can be used, but only in very small amounts. Do not let the base of the plant go short of water; water regularly and make sure the soil stays moist at all times, but avoid waterlogging.

The plant does not usually suffer much disease, but fungicide or neem oil can be used to prevent it. Prune regularly to keep the plant tidy.

Miracle berry saplings will bear fruit within two to three years of planting, and grafted saplings within one to two years. The fruit can be eaten straight away once it turns red.

Source: Jagonews24. First published in Bengali on The Agro News.