Agro and oil extraction technology for geranium (Pelargonium graveolens L.)

Bipuli. The leaves and branches are steam distilled to get "oil of geranium" (yield about 0.8%-0.1%), used in high grade perfumery products and soaps.

North and south India, both in plains and hilly regions.

Well drained fertile soil, pH 5.5-7.5, and Mediterranean type of climate with warm winter and mild summer, average temp. 30-35⁰C with low humidity, moderate rainfall up to 1000-1500 mm

Through stem cuttings, about 40000 plants/ha during November- February

First harvest after about 5 months, subsequently at 3 months intervals; grown as annual in north Indian Plains, up to 3 yr in other irrigation as per need, fertilizer: 150-200 kg N, 60 kg P nad 60 kg K/ha. 2-3 weeding and regular hoeing are required.

 40-50kg oil/ha.

Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology,Post Box No. 6 Palampur (H.P.) 176061 INDIA Tel: +91-1894-230742-43 Fax: +91-1894-230433
E-mail: director@ihbt.res.in