Present status, problems and researchable issues of betel vine (piper betel L.) production with special reference to northern Karnataka

Betel vine (Piper betle L) is  a perennial climber Betel vine (Piper betle L) is  a perennial climber cultivated for its leaf. In India, 55000 ha and in Karnataka 7143 ha area covered under this crop. This paper is the outcome of series of field visits made to the betel vine growing areas. Significant diversity observed in production aspects and also problems related to crop production. Lack of alternative standard for vine climbing, irrigation methods, fertigation, wilt, snail and un organized marketing are major problems in northern part of Karnataka. To solve these problems identified researchable issues are identification of alternative standard, standardization of fertigation schedule, integrated pest management practices and development of organized market.