Business Ideas: Big business idea for farmer brothers, will earn lakhs every month
Business Ideas: The fragrant heartwood and oil of sandalwood—which is sometimes referred to as “green gold”—makes it one of the most valuable trees in the world. India is witnessing a proven agroforestry business opportunity for sandalwood farming due to increasing demand in cosmetics, perfumery and medicine industries.
Below is an ultimate guide on how to begin sandalwood farming.
Why Sandalwood Farming?
High Market Value:
Sandalwood is another lucrative crop that costs ₹5,000 to ₹10,000 per kg.
Low Maintenance:
Sandalwood trees are self-sustainable and need very little care once grown, which ultimately reduces the cost after the long term.
Sustainable Business:
Sandalwood farming would be as eco-friendly and profitable as this with minimal efforts and within the peripheries of the law.
Government Support:
In India, sandalwood cultivation is also promoted through subsidies and training programs by different state governments.
Business Ideas: How to Start Sandalwood Plantation?
Understand Legal Requirements
It needs to be registered and approved by the local forest departments for sandalwood cultivation.
Follow the regulation of the government and none would need to face the law.
Choose the Right Location
Most sandalwood varieties prefer tropical climates with moderate annual rainfall.
Best suited areas are Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Andhra Pradesh.
Soil Preparation and Planting
Soil: Preferably red, sandy or loamy soils with good drainage.
Propagate: It is advisable to using saplings that are from certified nurseries, as using saplings is likely to yield better results.
Spacing: Leave a spacing of 3 × 3 meters between each plant for proper crew.
Business Ideas: Care and Maintenance
Sandalwood does require host plants that fix nitrogen. Red gram and castor are common hosts.
During the first few years where they are still growing, you will need to water and fertilize regularly!
Harvesting and Processing
Once the Santalum tree has matured after 12-15 years, it will provide 20-30 kilograms of heartwood (in pure weight) per tree.
The extracted heartwood and oil are sold to industries or exported.
Business Ideas: Investment and Profitability
Investment:
The initial cost of growing sandalwood can be between ₹3 lakh to ₹5 lakh per acre that includes saplings, irrigation and labour charge.
Profit Potential:
Sandalwood can yield 500–700 kilograms per acre, generating up to ₹3–5 crore after 12–15 years.
Business Ideas: Market Opportunities
This big range of sandalwood and its oil are in sufficient immoderate demand in diverse industries such as:
Perfume and Cosmetics
Medicine and Ayurveda
Religious and Linguistic Practices
As a major consumer and exporter of sandalwood, India makes it a high-demand item within the country and abroad.
Business Ideas: Sandalwood Farming Challenges
Long Gestation Period:
Patience is required, trees take anywhere between 12-15 years after planting to reach maturity and needs to be maintained throughout the years.
Pest and Disease Management:
Pest infestations can be more costly than just eliminating them yourself and become a burden, so you can remedy this with regular monitoring.
Theft and Security Concerns:
Due to its high value, sandalwood cannot avoid theft, and requires good security protection.
Do you want to attempt sandalwood growing? Below are a few tips to help you succeed
Consult with the agricultural specialists for efficient techniques for her plantation.
Opt for modern irrigation techniques such as dripper systems to save water.
Be up to date with the current government schemes and subsidy for sandalwood cultivation.
Conclusion
While sandalwood farming takes long to grow and produce returns, over many years it is a high-yielding investment in agroforestry. When planned and executed in compliance with legal requirements and with a bit of patience this is the most profitable and sustainability-another factor of agriculture.