Skip to main content

Plantations

Join a flourishing economic sector – Cultivating Sandalwood

Sandalwood was historically seen as the main pillar of the economy in Mysore state, with the entire budget being formulated around sandalwood.

Even though sandalwood production in India has been well-known for many years, it was mostly limited to the plantations owned by these state governments and the forests of the South Indian states. However, in 2002, these governments changed their policies to permit the cultivation of sandalwood. To guarantee that there won’t be a sandalwood shortage in the near future, the Karnataka State Forest Department has relaxed the rules pertaining to sandalwood cultivation. The forest department permits people to freely cultivate and own sandalwood trees in accordance with the proposed amendment to the Karnataka Tree Act 1927.

Approval is granted to fell a sandalwood tree on private property following a detailed inspection by the authorities. The cut tree is then taken to the sandalwood depot, where it is auctioned off after all required procedures are completed. Meanwhile, the private cultivation of this valuable tree is growing swiftly.

Essential Characteristics of Indian Sandalwood

Because sandalwood is in such high demand in global markets and current production cannot keep up with demand, the price of sandalwood has skyrocketed. The cultivation of sandalwood requires very little upkeep and is a very profitable enterprise.

Climate Requirement

Sandalwood trees flourish in tropical and subtropical areas characterized by hot and humid climates. Their cultivation necessitates temperatures between 12 degrees and 40 degrees Celsius, as well as land situated at relatively higher altitudes.

Soil Specifications

Sandalwood is capable of thriving in various soil types, such as red clay, sandy, and clay-dominant black soils. It can also endure gravelly and rocky terrains. The optimal pH level for the soil should be maintained between 6 and 7.5.

Irrigation

The cultivation of sandalwood plants necessitates minimal water usage. During the summer months, young sandalwood plants should receive irrigation every two to three weeks. Conversely, in rainy conditions, irrigation may not be necessary.

Harvesting

The profitability of sandalwood cultivation for investors is substantial, as it is the only type of wood globally sold by weight. The market price fluctuates between Rs 3,000 and Rs 7,000 per kilogram, with premium-quality sandalwood occasionally fetching prices around Rs 10,000 per kilogram. The heartwood of a sandalwood tree begins to develop when the tree reaches eight years of age, and it can be harvested after a period of 12 to 15 years from the time of planting. There exists a significant demand for sandalwood in both local and international markets, ensuring that investors can expect considerable returns from sandalwood cultivation.