Aloe Vera
Aloevera – Aloe barbadensis
Varieties – IC 111271, IC 111280, IC
111273, IC 111279, IC 111267
Total duration of crop – Three to four years.
Soil
and Climate -
The crop
thrives best in well-drained sandy loam soils, though it can adapt even to less
fertile lands. It grows best in warm, humid, and dry climates, while frost and
very low temperatures can affect its performance. With a soil pH tolerance up
to 8.5, it is successfully cultivated across various regions of India.
Time of Cultivation - Planting
is usually done in the last week of June or during July, after the first
monsoon showers, ensuring a strong start for healthy growth.
This is usually done in the last week of June or during July, after the first
monsoon showers, ensuring a strong start for healthy growth.
Cultivation Practices
-
Before planting, the land is ploughed twice,
levelled, and enriched with approximately 30 tonnes per hectare of cow dung
manure. After the initial monsoon showers, the field is weeded, hoed, and
prepared for propagation. Root suckers or rhizome cuttings, typically 18–20 cm
in length, are planted at a spacing of 60×45 cm, with about one-third of the
rhizome remaining above the soil. Light irrigation is given after planting to
support initial growth.
Fertilizer
Application -
Since the crop’s roots are shallow and it remains in the field for 7–8 years, regular fertilization improves both yield and quality. A balanced mix of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (approximately 150 kg/ha) is recommended. Once the plants are established, fertilizers should be applied near the root zone to maximize effectiveness.
Irrigation -
The crop generally does not require frequent
irrigation. However, during dry periods, protective irrigation may be
necessary. Around 5–6 irrigations per year, based on soil moisture, are sufficient.
Harvesting -
Plants are ready for harvest 10–12 months after planting, or when the leaves reach 35–40 cm in length. The medicinal material is obtained from the leaves, which are cut near the base during collection.
Yield- The crop produces approximately 15,000–18,000 kg per hectare in fresh weight during the first year, with yields improving in subsequent years.
Medicinal Properties of Aloe Vera
- Skin
Health & Healing
- Digestive Support
- Immunity Booster
- Anti-inflammatory & Pain
Relief
- Detoxification
- Hair & Scalp Care
- Antioxidant Protection
Approximate
economics of Guggul cultivation:
|
Ist Year |
IInd Year |
||
|
Details |
₹ |
|
₹ |
|
Preparation of land |
3000 |
Irrigation |
1000 |
|
Rhizomes |
10,000 |
Fertilizer |
1500 |
|
Planting |
2000 |
Interculture |
800 |
|
Fertilizers/manures |
3000 |
Miscellaneous
expenditure |
1000 |
|
Irrigation |
1500 |
Harvesting |
2500 |
|
Weeding/ Hoeing |
1200 |
|
|
|
Plant protection |
800 |
||
|
Miscellaneous
expenditure |
2000 |
|
|
|
Total |
₹23,500 |
Total |
₹ 6,800 |
Total expenditure = Ist + IInd year
23,500 + 6,800 = ₹ 30,300
Fresh
leaves are sold at ₹ 3/- per kg i.e. 15000 x 3 = ₹ 45,000/- per hectare (approx.)
Return per hectare = 45000 – 23500 = ₹ 21500