Palmorosa

Soil and Climate –

The crop grows bet in sandy loam soil with good water drainage. It can be grown in both slightly acidic and slightly alkaline soils, but a soil pH between 6.5 to 7.5 gives the best results. Tropical and subtropical climates are ideal for this crop. High humidity, around 88%, is important for healthy plant growth.

 

Cultivation –

Sowing is usually done from the end of May to early June. Rows should be kept 60cm apart, and plants should be spaced 30cm from each other. Gap filling or thinning should be done whenever needed to maintain proper plant population. The soil should have good moisture, around 70%, at the time of sowing. Well-decomposed farmyard manure should be applied fully at sowing.

Seedlings that are 3-4 weeks old are transplanted into the field, and irrigation should be given immediately after transplanting. During winter, two irrigations are enough, while in summer, 3-4 irrigations are required. Care should be taken to avoid water stagnation, as excess water can severly damage the crop.

Since this is a perennial crop, it needs adequate nutrients every year. About 150 kg Nitrogen, 60 kg phosphorus, and 50 kg potash per hectare per year should be applied for healthy growth and good yield.

 

Harvesting –

The first harvest can be done about 7 months after planting. After that, the crop can be harvested multiple times, with intervals of 2-3 months between harvests. While harvesting, cut the crop 15-20 cm above the ground.

Yield –

A hectare of this crop can produce around 20 tonnes of grass, containing 0.4-0.5% oil. This gives about 150-180 kg of palmarosa oil per hectare. Grass should be harvested during its flowering stage, usually in October – November, February – March, and June – July. Oil yield may vary depending on the timing of harvest and the overall growth of the plants.

 

Medicinal properties of Palmorosa –

• Traditionally used to relieve indigestion, bloating and stomach infections
• Supports overall immune health
• Helps reduce stress, anxiety, and mental fatigue
• Helps reduce fever by promoting sweating
• Used for dry skin, scars, wrinkles, and stretch marks
• Helps prevent microbial growth in cuts and ulcers

Income and Expenditure on Palmorosa Production/ Farming:

  With a spacing of 40 x 40 cm, approximately 30,000 palmorosa saplings can be planted per acre.

·         Cost of saplings: Approx. ₹4 per sapling, (including transportation) = ₹1,20,000 expenditure per acre.

·         This is a one-time investment, while the crop continues to yield for up to five years.

·         From 1 acre plantation, Palmorosa oil can be extracted within the first six months, yielding approximately 50 litres of oil. In the following six months, production increases to around 70 litres.

·         Total oil production in the first year is approximately ₹120 litres per acre. At a market or buy back rate of ₹1,200 per litre, the income from the first year’s harvest is about ₹1,44,000 per acre(approx.)