tejpatra :

Cultivation:

Transplanted in the field 2 m apart with a recommended spacing of 3-4 m. Sufficient shade is provided in the early

stages of growth, and shade trees are cleared after 8-9 years. The fields are not usually manured or other wise cared

for but undergrowth is occasionally removed. The ease with which essential oils can be obtained from this plant’s

material makes it ideal for cash crop farming.

Propogation:

Seed - the seed of species in this genus generally has a short viability and is best sown as soon in containers as it is ripe Remove the fruit pulp since this can inhibit germination. Soaking the seeds for 24 hours in lukewarm water hastens germination, which can take 1 - 6 months at 20°c. The germination rate of fresh seed is about 50%, falling to 25% for seed 6 months old, and zero for those 1 year old. Stored seed should be sown as soon as possible in containers. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out into their permanent positions when 10cm or more tall.
Cuttings of semi-ripe side shoots, 7cm with a heel, in a frame with bottom heat

Harvesting:

Leaves are ready for harvesting when trees are 10 years. Tree longevity is up to 100 years, and they continue bearing in old age. Leaves are collected every year from vigorous plants and in alternate years from old and weak ones. Collections are made in dry weather from October-March. Continuous rain diminishes the aroma of the leaves. Small branches with leaves are dried in the sun for 3 or 4 days and tied up into bundles for marketing. The average annual yield per tree is 40-100 kg/tree

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