Abstract

Kadayam is a village in the Tinnevelly District situated midway between Ambasamudram and Courtalam and is noted for lime cultivation. There are a number of gardens which vary in extent from half to one acre and which are reported to be very profitable. In addition to limes, other fruit trees such as mangos, papayas and pomegranates are also grown, as also are roses. Lime trees do not thrive well in Courtalam which is close to the ghats even though it enjoys a cool climate. Possibly the strong monsoon winds near the ghats prove detrimental to the healthy growth of these plants and a considerable shedding of flowers has been observed which accounts for the trees not bearing well. Kadayam, being situated about fifteen miles from Courtalam, is not subject to the heavy winds of the ghats, while it is in possession of a mild climate and receives light showers at convenient intervals, being benefited by both the South West and North East monsoons. The fruit growers in this village are agriculturists owning both wet and garden lands and fruit growing is only a part of their occupation.

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