Eucalyptus thrives both in the tropics and subtropics. High humidity and plenty of rainfall are conducive to its luxuriant growth. It can be grown in varied types of soils. The essential oil is used in the preparation of cosmetics, hair oil and soap and forms a raw material for menthol manufacture.
Preparation of land Clear the land of jungle growth. Take pits of size 45 x 45 x 45 cm at a spacing 2 x 2 m at least one month prior to planting and allow to weather. Fill up the pits with soil completely so as to prevent water stagnation.
Planting
Nursery is raised and 4-5 month old seedlings are planted with the commencement of southwest
monsoon. After planting, press the soil around the seedling and form mound to prevent stagnation of
water.
Manuring
Manuring is not usually done. however, application of 400 g ammonium sulphate, 60 g superphosphate
and 25 g muriate of potash per plant per year during August from third year onwards is found to be useful in increasing leaf yield.
Aftercultivation
During first year, cultivate the rows in both directions to prevent weed growth. Hand weeding is done
around the seedlings. Fire belts are to be provided all around.
Intercropping
Eucalyptus can be grown along with coffee, lemongrass and palmarosa. In the first four years,
intercropping with pineapple, yam and vegetables can be done.
Harvest and curing
Pruning of side branches may be started from second year onwards. Lopping at a height of 2 m is- done
during third or fourth year and there after lopping is resorted to at half-yearly intervals leaving only one
branch. For extracting oil, steam distillation is resorted to. Optimum time for distillation is two hours and the average recovery of oil is 1.5-1.8% of the net weight of leaves. Wilting of the cut leaves under shade for 24 hours before distillation will increase the oil recovery percentage.

Web: https://www.natureherbs.org | www.natureherbs.co
Email : natureherbs@ymail.com
Watsapp: +91 841 888 5555
Skype: nature.herbs