Lemongrass Farming in India: Step-by-Step Process

Lemongrass farming is becoming more popular in many parts of India because of its growing use in medicine, cosmetics, and food. This plant doesnt need much care, grows in different weather conditions, and gives good profit. Whether there is a small field or a big one, proper care and planning can turn lemongrass into a steady source of income.

This guide will explain the benefits of lemongrass and how to grow it step by step.

Benefits of Lemongrass

Lemongrass is simple to grow and gives many advantages for both personal use and industry. Here are the main reasons why this plant is so useful and in demand:

• High Demand: Many herbal items, beauty products, soaps, and aroma oils use lemongrass.

• Medicinal Benefits: It helps with digestion, boosts the immune system, and supports stress relief.

• Natural Insect Control: The oil made from lemongrass keeps bugs away without using chemicals.

• Eco-Friendly Growth: It uses fewer chemicals and supports healthy soil.

• Multiple Harvests: The plant can be cut several times each year, giving a regular source of income.

• Good Market Price: Its fresh smell and oil are used in many natural products, which keeps its value high.

How Do You Grow Lemongrass?

Lemongrass grows well if some basic steps are followed. Go through the given information to understand all the essential processes:

Selecting the Right Location and Climate

Lemongrass grows best in warm and slightly wet places. It needs daily sunlight for about 6 to 8 hours and grows well when the temperature stays between 20C and 30C. Soil should be slightly acidic or neutral and drain well. However, avoid areas where water stays after rain. Places like Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Assam have good conditions for lemongrass growth.

Preparing the Land

This crop needs soft and rich soil with good natural material. First, the land should be ploughed 2 to 3 times to loosen it and remove weeds. After that, level the field properly and mix compost or old animal manure to improve soil health.

In places with heavy rains, raised beds or ridges can help stop water from collecting. A mini tractor works well for this stage, especially on smaller lands. It can do ploughing, levelling, and making beds faster. Since the mini tractor price in India is affordable, many people can use one to reduce hard labour and increase work speed.

Planting Lemongrass

Instead of using seeds, planting is done through slips or cuttings. These slips grow faster and more easily. Each slip should have 3 to 4 stalks and strong roots. The best time to plant is during the rainy season (June-July) or in spring (February-March) if water is available.

Furthermore, keep a gap of 60 cm by 60 cm between plants for better air flow. Push the slips firmly into the moist soil to help roots settle properly.

Irrigation and Water Management

Lemongrass can survive dry weather, but grows better with regular watering. A good water supply also increases oil output.

• Water the land right after planting.

• In dry times, water every 10 to 15 days.

• Avoid giving too much water, as this can cause root problems.

• Using drip or sprinkler systems helps save water and keeps the soil moist for longer.

Weed and Pest Control

It is important to keep the field clean from weeds, so the lemongrass can grow stronger. Even though it usually doesnt get attacked by insects, it still needs some basic care.

• Remove weeds by hand or use small tools every 30 to 45 days.

• This keeps the soil fresh and helps water stay in the ground.

• Neem sprays or natural pest control can stop stem borers or root insects.

• Lemongrass mostly stays healthy and doesnt suffer from serious diseases.

Fertilizer Application

Keeping the lemongrass field free from weeds is important to ensure the plants get enough nutrients and grow properly. Although lemongrass is generally resistant to pests and diseases, basic care and monitoring help maintain healthy crops.

• Hand weeding or light hoeing every 30-45 days is effective.

• Mulching reduces weed growth and retains soil moisture.

• Use neem-based sprays or bio-pesticides for stem borers and root grubs.

• Rarely affected by major diseases.

Harvesting Lemongrass

Lemongrass is ready to cut after about 4 to 5 months of planting. Cut the grass 10 to 15 cm above the ground. The first cut may give less oil, but the next harvests give better results.

This plant can be harvested 3 to 4 times a year and continues to grow for around 5 years. The best time to cut is early in the morning, as the oil in the leaves is highest at that time.

Post-Harvest Processing

Once the grass is cut, extract the oil quickly to keep it fresh and strong. The best way to get the oil is through steam distillation. After the oil is ready, store it in dark, tightly closed bottles in a cool and dry place.

Good packaging and labelling make the product more valuable, especially for export. For small lands, a compact tractor like the VST 927 4WD works well during post-harvest work. This machine has a 24 HP engine and can lift up to 750 kg, which helps in carrying the cut grass to the oil-making spot, even in small spaces. In addition, the VST mini tractor price range is between ?5.26 lakh and ?5.59 lakh.

Final Words

Overall, Lemongrass farming in India is a great option for those looking for a low-care, high-profit crop. With suitable soil, the right weather, and proper steps, this plant gives good returns every year. Whether working on a small land or planning to grow more, lemongrass offers steady income and is easy to manage.