Cultivation of Sandalwood

Sandalwood, known for its fragrance and various uses, is a valuable tree and an important part of India's rich botanical heritage. It is used for its aromatic wood, oil, cosmetics, medicines, and other products. The demand for sandalwood is high both domestically and internationally. Its cultivation has been practiced for centuries, particularly in the southern Indian states of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh.

How to Cultivate Sandalwood?

Soil

• For sandalwood cultivation, sandy loam or red sandy clay soil is suitable, with a pH level between 6.5 and 7.5. The soil should contain a rich amount of organic matter and have good water retention capacity. Proper soil preparation and fertilization are essential for successful sandalwood cultivation in India.

Climate

• Sandalwood trees thrive in tropical regions of India and require a warm and humid climate for growth. The ideal temperature for sandalwood cultivation ranges between 20 to 35°C. Excessive rainfall can harm the growth of sandalwood trees, leading to waterlogging and root rot.

Field Preparation

• While preparing the field, plow it thoroughly 4 to 5 times. After plowing, level the field properly. Ensure there is no waterlogging in the field, as this can increase the chances of fungal diseases. Therefore, make proper drainage arrangements. You can also cultivate sandalwood on level ground.

Nursery Management

• Sandalwood is primarily grown from seeds. The trees are usually sown in a nursery through seeds. When the trees reach 15 to 20 years of age, the ideal time for harvesting is between August and March. During this period, the sandalwood contains a higher amount of essential oil and fragrance, enhancing its quality. Thus, harvesting at the right age can yield better products.

Transplanting

• When the plants are 7 to 8 months old and reach a height of 30-35 cm, they are ready for transplantation. For this, dig pits of 45x45x45 cm and maintain a distance of 10 feet between each plant to ensure optimal growth.

Fertilizer Management

• Organic fertilizers are used in sandalwood farming to provide plants with natural nutrients. During the growth phase, plants particularly require nitrogen, phosphate, and potassium.

Weed Management

• Weeds should be manually removed, or tools like a hoe or sickle should be used to uproot them. In mulching, the soil around sandalwood trees should be covered with leaves, straw, or grass. This helps suppress weed growth and retains moisture in the soil.

Irrigation Management

• Sandalwood trees grow well during the rainy season, but proper irrigation should be arranged during summer. Ensure irrigation based on soil moisture and weather conditions. Irrigation is typically done from December to May during the rainy season. Methods like drip irrigation, sprinkler irrigation, flood irrigation, or rainwater harvesting can be used for watering.

Pest and Disease Management

• Sandalwood plants can suffer significant damage from root rot, scale insects, leaf spots, mealybugs, and termites if not controlled in a timely manner. Regular monitoring of the plants is essential, and appropriate measures should be taken as soon as any signs of infection appear.

Harvesting

• The harvesting of sandalwood is a special and complex process that requires great care and adherence to regulations. Sandalwood is harvested from trees that are marked after they have matured, which takes about 30 years. This process is governed by strict regulations because sandalwood is a protected tree. Legal permission is required for harvesting and storage to prevent illegal logging and trade.

Yield

• In sandalwood cultivation, approximately 5,000 kg of sandalwood can be obtained from one acre of land. This yield is quite valuable, as there is a high demand for sandalwood wood and oil in the market.

Do you want to cultivate sandalwood? Share your answers and experiences with us in the comments. For more interesting and important information related to farming, make sure to follow the 'Horticulture' channel. And if you liked the post, don't forget to like it and share it with your fellow farmers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How many years does it take for a sandalwood tree to mature?

A: A sandalwood tree typically matures between 20 to 45 years.

Q: In which states is sandalwood cultivated?

A: Sandalwood is primarily cultivated in the Indian states of Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala.

Q: What is the identification of genuine sandalwood?

A: Genuine sandalwood can be identified by its fragrance, color, and density. The wood of genuine sandalwood is commonly used by musicians and in religious ceremonies, while fake sandalwood is used in more than half of the rituals and cultural festivals.

Q: How many types of sandalwood are there?

A: Sandalwood is a plant known for its fragrance, color, and utility. There are two main types of sandalwood: white sandalwood and red sandalwood, which are cultivated in North and South India.

Q: Where can sandalwood seeds be found?

A: Sandalwood is primarily cultivated in India and can be found in various parts of the country, including Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, and Maharashtra. Sandalwood seeds are obtained from mature sandalwood trees that produce seed-containing fruits. Seeds can also be purchased from government institutions or nurseries. Additionally, the “Institute of Wood Science and Technology” of the Central Government in Bangalore is an institution that provides sandalwood seeds and plants for cultivation.