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Kharif / Semi-Perennial • Industrial Non-Edible Oilseed
Castor (Eraṇḍo / Arandi)
Ricinus communis
Gujarat is the world leader in castor seed and oil export. Highly drought resilient with deep tap roots, excellent for IoT precision drip irrigation.
Optimal Temperature
20°C - 36°C
Ideal Soil Moisture
30% - 55%
Daily Sunlight
7+ Hours/day
Growth Cycle
150 - 210 days
Soil Type & Fertilizer Ratios
Recommended Soil:
Moderately fertile, well-drained sandy loam or medium black soils.
Recommended NPK Ratio:80:40:0 kg/ha
Irrigation Scheduling & Water Requirements
Irrigate at 15-20 day intervals during spike emergence and capsule development. Highly responsive to drip.
Common Pests & Disease Vulnerabilities
- Castor Semilooper (Achaea janata)
- Capsule Borer
- Fusarium Wilt
- Root Rot
Optimal Harvesting Signs & Post-Harvest Handling
Pick spikes when 80% of the capsules in the primary spike turn yellowish-brown and dry.