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Arandi
Arandi (Castor) Cultivation
Castor, scientifically known as Ricinus communis, is primarily cultivated for its seeds, which are rich in oil. Castor oil has diverse industrial uses, including as a lubricant in high-speed engines and aircraft, in the production of soaps, transparent paper, and printing inks. The seeds are also valued for their medicinal properties and are used for lighting in some regions.
Uses
- Medicinal: Castor oil is a well-known remedy for constipation. Additionally, it has antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. It is often used topically to treat skin conditions, reduce pain, and stimulate the immune system.
- Industrial: Used in high-speed engine lubrication, soap manufacturing, and more.
Cultivation Castor can be grown from sea level up to altitudes of 100 meters (m.s.l.). It thrives in hot, dry climates, requiring an annual rainfall of 500-800 mm, with 500-600 mm being essential during the first three months of growth.
Species The seed rate for sowing varies depending on the method:
- Sowing behind the plough: 12 kg/ha.
- Hand dibbling: 8-10 kg/ha is sufficient.
- Intercropping: The seed rate depends on the proportion of other crops. Spacing varies based on growth habit, variety duration, and sowing time. For rainfed conditions, early and medium-duration cultivars are sown with closer spacing.
Marketing
India is the largest producer of castor seeds globally. Due to high demand, castor seeds are easy to market. Our company also offers a Buy Back agreement to facilitate transactions.
Harvesting
Castor takes about 145-280 days to mature. Harvesting is done when the capsules turn yellowish, but not all spikes mature simultaneously. The central spike on the main rachis matures first, followed by the side branches, requiring 2-3 pickings for complete harvest. After harvesting, the spikes are dried in the sun for 4-5 days before threshing.