Production technology of Lavender: Frontline cash crop for Kashmir valley

Abstract

The production technology of Lavandula angustifolia (true English Lavender) from rooting of stem cuttings, standardizing the distance for plantation in field, yield of essential oil and economics of cultivation has been discussed. 92% rooting can be achieved in the semi hardwood cuttings of L. angustifolia if treated with 2000ppm IBA in the month of October. Maximum herbage yield (fresh flower) on harvesting after two years can be to the tune of 11,420kg ha-1 when planted at a spacing of 50cm X 50cm. Maximum yield of essential oil 117 kg ha-1 has been obtained from 50cm X 50cm spacing and thus showing a recovery rate of 1.02%. Actual benefits are obtained after 2nd year of plantation and production may continue up to 12-15 years. Economic analysis has shown the net results will be Rs 4.0 lakhs ha-1 year-1. Comparing the quality profile of essential oil cultivated in Kashmir with that of cultivated in Europe it has become evident that Kashmir lavender oil (linalool > 44%) is of international standards.