Lemongrass Cultivation: An Excellent Income Option for Farmers

Raipur, January 92026 : With the objective of doubling farmers’ income and strengthening their economic condition, a Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Cultivation Scheme is being implemented in the state. Under this initiative, lemongrass cultivation has emerged as an excellent option for farmers to earn higher profits at low cost.

Good Income Opportunities for Farmers

Lemongrass (Cymbopogon flexuosus), commonly known as lemon grass, is a highly profitable, low-input crop for farmers. It can be cultivated even on barren or rocky land and requires minimal water and maintenance. The crop allows 4–5 harvests in a year, enabling farmers to earn up to ₹1 lakh per acre annually. There is strong demand for lemongrass oil in the perfume and cosmetics industry, as well as in tea and medicinal products, ensuring steady income for cultivators.

It is noteworthy that Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai has directed all district collectors and the Agriculture Department to promote the cultivation of medicinal plants. Forest Minister Shri Kedar Kashyap and Chairman of the Chhattisgarh Tribal, Local Health Traditions and Medicinal Plant Board, Shri Vikas Markam, have also been consistently encouraging farmers to take advantage of this scheme.

Free Planting Material and Technical Support

Under the Medicinal Plant Board, farmers cultivating lemongrass are being provided free slips (planting material). To ensure better development of cultivation, farming is carried out in clusters of 40–50 farmers within a 1–2 km radius. Through non-governmental organisations, the Board also provides technical assistance, marketing support, and facilitates Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) for procurement.

Free Training and Exposure Visits

To equip farmers with complete knowledge of lemongrass cultivation, the Board organises free training programmes and exposure visits. Farmers are given hands-on training covering land preparation, planting, crop care, and oil extraction through the distillation process.

Easy, Safe, and Low-Cost Cultivation

Lemongrass is a perennial aromatic grass. Soil with a pH level of 6.6 to 8.0 is considered suitable for its cultivation, and the crop grows best in areas with ample sunlight. June is the most suitable month for planting. About 25,000 plants are required per acre.

The use of farmyard manure or compost improves yield. Irrigation is required once every 7–10 days. Lemongrass generally does not suffer from pest attacks, reducing the need for pesticides. The first harvest is carried out after six months, followed by harvesting every three months. Once planted, the crop can yield produce for up to five years.

Oil Production and Earnings

Lemongrass grass is converted into oil through the distillation process. The oil is widely used in soaps, cosmetics, and the aroma industry. In the first year, farmers can produce 60–80 kg of oil per acre, while from the second year onwards, production can reach around 100 kg per acre. With a market price ranging from ₹1,200 to ₹1,600 per kg, and an annual cost of about ₹20,000 per acre, farmers can earn an annual profit of ₹80,000 to ₹1 lakh.

A Profitable Option for Farmers

Low investment, safe cultivation, and sustained production over several years make lemongrass an excellent income-generating option for farmers. This initiative of the state government is proving to be a strong support in encouraging farmers to adopt medicinal plant cultivation and steadily increase their income.