Title : Rhizome less sprouts: A novel propagation technique in turmeric
Abstract:
Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.), native to India and Southeast Asia, is widely used as a spice, cosmetic, dye, and increasingly in pharmaceuticals, especially post-COVID-19. Traditionally, turmeric is propagated through rhizomes, requiring approximately 2500 kg per hectare, accounting for 20-22% of production costs. This study presents an innovative propagation technique to address the high seed rhizome requirement without relying on tissue culture methods, thereby optimizing traditional propagation to enhance efficiency and reduce costs.
The novel method involves detaching 5-8 cm long rooted sprouts from the seed rhizome. These cylindrical sprouts with tight, unopened leaves are planted in trays (portrays), developing into field-ready plants within 20 days. Alternatively, sprouts can be directly planted in organic-rich soil, where they grow comparably to those from rhizome portions. Rhizome development begins 45 days post-planting, forming a mature cluster ready for harvest in 6-8 months, depending on the variety. This technique offers several advantages. It enables early planting through well-developed sprouts, facilitating faster and more robust establishment. These well-established sprouts are more tolerant to heavy monsoons, reducing decay under waterlogged conditions, a common issue with traditional rhizomes prone to rot. Additionally, selecting healthy sprouts avoids rhizome rot, ensuring better crop health and yield.
Significantly, the method reduces seed rhizome requirements, cutting handling and transport costs by 50%. The remaining seed material can be repurposed into turmeric powder and other byproducts, providing additional income and promoting sustainability. The yield of rhizomes can potentially double when using tray-planted sprouts. Applications include raising commercial turmeric nurseries in trays and direct cultivation, particularly in rhizome rot and inundation-prone areas. By decreasing reliance on large seed quantities, this approach reduces production costs, making turmeric cultivation more accessible.
Key words: Turmeric, Propagation, Rhizome, Rhizomeless
Audience Takeaway:
- This research introduces a novel propagation technique that can be used in academic settings to teach and expand research on sustainable agriculture and crop production.
- It offers a practical solution by reducing seed rhizome requirements, simplifying the propagation process, and cutting production costs.
- It improves the accuracy of crop production designs by ensuring better plant establishment and providing new insights into efficient propagation techniques.
- Economic: Reduces production costs and provides additional income from byproducts.
- Environmental: Promotes sustainable use of resources.
- Operational: Simplifies propagation and reduces handling and transport costs.
- Applicability: Suitable for various cultivation environments, especially those prone to rhizome rot and inundation.
