Sowing
- In situ sowing of seed in June – July and Nov. – Dec., about 500 gm seed is enough for 1 hac. of land.
- Pits of 45 cm X 45 cm X 45 cm size are dug at 2.5 m X 2.5 m one week before sowing.
- Two seeds are sown 3 cm deep in each pit in the center. Seeds can also be sown in polythene bags. One month seedlings are planted.
Propagation
- Time: – May – Aug.
- Perennial types are propagated vegetatively.
- One year old stems are used for propagation. (1 – 1.35 m long and 14 – 16 cm thick).
- The stem cuttings are planted directly in the field 3 – 5 m apart. Make pits of 1 m X 1 m X 1 m size.
Manuring and Fertilization
- Organic manure @75 kg per plant can be given to one year old plants and above during June in trenches 1m away from plants.
- First dose of fertilizer containing 45 gm N, 16 gm P and 30 gm K per plant should be applied in 3 months after planting whereas second dose of 45 gm N is given 6 months after.
Aftercare
- To encourage side growth at the time of harvesting the plants are topped at 75 cm height. If required they can be topped once again at 120 cm height.
- The field should be maintained weed free for initial 2 months, but if necessary weeding can be done any time.
Intercropping
- For the first 3 years, chilly, eggplant, tomato etc. can be grown as intercrop.
Irrigation
- Generally drumstick does not require much irrigation and it is a drought tolerant crop.
- Irrigation is done once in 10 – 15 days according to soil types.
- Water stagnation is harmful.
Harvesting
- Annual drumsticks take six months for harvesting after sowing and perennial types take 8 – 9 months.
- In North India and Nepal it is harvested in March – June by cutting limbs (branches).
Yield
- Annual type: – 200 – 250 fruits per plant.
- Perennial type: – 500 – 600 fruits per plant.