Botanical name: Cymbopogon citratusChromosomes number: 2n = 20
Origin:
Lemon grass is native to Southeast Asia, specifically originating in India and Sri Lanka.
Geographical distribution:
Lemon grass is now widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions around the world, including countries like India, Thailand, Vietnam, Brazil, and parts of Africa.
Economic importance:
Lemon grass is primarily cultivated for its aromatic oil, which is used extensively in the perfume, food, and beverage industries. The oil is known for its strong lemon-like fragrance and is used in the production of essential oils, soaps, candles, and insect repellents. It is also used as a flavoring agent in culinary preparations and as a herbal remedy in traditional medicine.
Soil and climatic requirements:
Lemon grass prefers well-drained soils with a pH range of 4.5 to 7.5. It thrives in sandy loam or loamy soil types. The crop requires a warm and humid climate with temperatures ranging between 20°C and 35°C (68°F to 95°F). It can tolerate brief periods of drought but performs best with regular watering.
Seed rate and spacing:
The recommended seed rate for lemon grass is around 4 to 5 kg per hectare. The spacing between plants should be about 60 to 75 cm, with rows spaced at 75 to 90 cm apart.
Seed treatment:
Lemon grass seeds can be treated with a fungicide before sowing to protect against seed-borne diseases. Soaking the seeds in water overnight prior to sowing can also help improve germination rates.
Varieties:
There are several cultivated varieties of lemon grass, including East Indian, West Indian, and Cochin varieties. Each variety may differ slightly in terms of growth habit, oil content, and aroma.
Cultural practices:
Here are some common cultural practices for lemon grass cultivation:
1. Land preparation: Prepare the land by plowing and harrowing to achieve a fine tilth.
2. Planting: Sow the seeds directly in the field or raise seedlings in nurseries and transplant them after 30 to 40 days.
3. Irrigation: Provide regular irrigation, especially during dry periods, to ensure adequate moisture for the plants.
4. Weed control: Control weeds through manual weeding or the application of herbicides. Avoid excessive weed competition that can hamper plant growth.
5. Fertilization: Apply well-decomposed organic manure or compost before planting. Supplement with nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium fertilizers during the growing season.
6. Pest and disease management: Monitor the crop for pests like aphids, mites, and caterpillars. Control measures may include the use of appropriate insecticides. Common diseases of lemon grass include leaf spot and rust, which can be managed through fungicide applications.
Yield:
Under favorable conditions, lemon grass can yield approximately 8 to 10 tonnes of fresh herbage per hectare. The yield may vary depending on factors such as variety, soil fertility, and management practices.
