Introduction
The root is the economic part used in Ayurvedic medicine to cure a number of diseases. Roots are used for improving the general vigour of the body and it cures bronchitis, rheumatism, inflammation. Major constituents are alkaloids viz., Withanine and Somniferine.
Soil and climate
It performs well in sandy loam soils with good organic matter and drainage with pH of 7.5 to 8.0. Temperature between 20 – 35oC is most ideal for cultivation.
Seed rate and spacing
About 10 – 12 kg/ha of seed mixed with five times of sand is required for broadcasting. For transplanting, seed rate of 5 kg/ha is required. Six weeks old seedlings are transplanted at a spacing of 60X 60 cm
Manures and Fertilizers
Mostly organic manures are used in the last ploughing
After cultivation
Hand weeding should be done 30 days after sowing to control the weeds.
Harvesting
The maturity of the crop is judged by indications of drying of the leaves and berries turning into yellow/ red colour. Crop is ready for harvest in 160-170 days after sowing. Entire plant is uprooted and root is cut into pieces of 7-10 cm and dried.
Yield
The crop produces 400-1200 kg/ha dried roots and 200-500 kg seeds/ha.