Aromatic Plants> Palmarosa> Propagation

Raising Seedlings in Nursery

Usually nursery is sown by end of April to mid of May under partial shade. Nursery beds are well prepared in May. The nursery beds are made by adding enough FYM , compost or organic matter. Channels are dug around the beds to provide irrigation. Normally 2 - 2.5 kg of seed is required to cover 100 sq.m nursery, which provides sufficient seedlings to plant one hectare area. As the seeds are small and light, they are mixed with fine soil for obtaining even distribution and ease in sowing. They are sown in lines, 15-20 cm apart. Seeds should not be sown densely to avoid overcrowding of seedlings The beds are watered lightly and regularly. Germination starts within two weeks. Later on, 0.2-0.5% solution of urea may be sprayed for good vegetative growth. In about 3-4 weeks, seedlings are ready for transplanting.

By Slips

For better quality and yield of oil it is recommended to grow Palmarosa by slips obtained by dividing well-grown clumps. Tops of clumps are cut off within 20-25 cm of the root. The latter is divided into slips and the lower brown sheath is removed to expose young roots. Slips should be taken from plants giving a good yield and a high quality of oil. However the rate of establishment of rooted slips is very poor as compared to nursery transplants. Slips should be planted in June-July or during the rainy season.