What is Shatavari?
Shatavari, also known as Asparagus racemosus, is a hardy medicinal plant widely used in Ayurveda. India’s herbal market demand is increasing every year, making Shatavari farming a profitable medicinal crop for farmers with low risk and long-term returns.
How to Grow Shatavari?
Climate & Soil Requirements
- Climate: Tropical & subtropical; temperature 25–35°C ideal.
- Rainfall: 800–1200 mm.
- Soil: Well-drained sandy loam or red soil with pH 6.5–8.0.
- Avoid waterlogging—it causes root rot.
Land Preparation
- Deep ploughing + remove weeds.
- Prepare ridges/furrows for good drainage.
- Add 10–15 tons/acre of FYM (Farmyard manure) before planting.
Planting Material
Shatavari is usually propagated using:
- Rooted tubers (preferred)
- Seeds (less common; uneven germination)
Planting Time:
- Best: June–July (Kharif)
- Also possible: February–March
Spacing & Planting
- Spacing: 60 × 45 cm
- Depth: 5–7 cm
- Plant 10,000–12,000 tubers per acre.
Shatavari-cropfield-krishicenter
Irrigation
- Light irrigation immediately after planting.
- Irrigate every 10–12 days in summer, every 20–25 days in winter.
- Avoid excess water.
Nutrient Management
- Basal: FYM 10–15 t/acre
- NPK (per acre): 40:20:20 kg
- Split N application into 2–3 doses.
Weed & Pest Management
- 3–4 manual weedings per year.
- Pests/diseases are minimal.
- Neem cake/Trichoderma recommended for soil health.
Harvesting
- Shatavari roots are harvested after 18–24 months.
- Carefully dig and lift to avoid root damage.
- Wash, slit, and sun-dry for 4–5 days.
- Moisture must be below 10% for storage.
Yield
- Average fresh root yield: 25–30 quintal/acre
- Dry root yield: 5–7 quintal/acre
What are the Benefits of Shatavari?
Women’s Health
- Supports hormonal balance
- Enhances fertility
- Promotes lactation in new mothers
- Relieves PMS and menopausal symptoms
Immunity & Overall Wellness
- Acts as a natural immunity booster
- Rich in antioxidants that reduce oxidative stress
- Supports faster recovery from illnesses
Digestive Health
- Soothes the digestive tract
- Helps manage ulcers, acidity, and gastric irritation
- Improves nutrient absorption
Anti-inflammatory & Healing Effects
- Reduces internal inflammation
- Helps in managing arthritis and joint pain
- Promotes tissue healing and regeneration
Hormonal Support (Men & Women)
- Balances reproductive hormones
- Improves vitality and stamina
- Supports healthy libido
Stress & Mental Health
- Works as an adaptogen, helping the body cope with stress
- Supports better sleep and reduces anxiety
Anti-aging Benefits
- Delays signs of aging
- Improves skin hydration and elasticity
Agricultural/Environmental Benefits
- Grows well on marginal land
- Low water requirement
- Minimal pest problems
- Improves soil organic matter through deep roots
Economic Value of Shatavari Farming
Shatavari-crop-krishicenter
Production Cost (per acre) – (All these are approx figures)
| Component | Cost (₹) |
|---|---|
| Land preparation | 6,000–8,000 |
| Tubers/planting material | 12,000–18,000 |
| Manure & fertilizers | 8,000–12,000 |
| Irrigation & labour | 12,000–15,000 |
| Harvesting & processing | 8,000–12,000 |
| Total Cost | 46,000–60,000 |
Market Price
- Dry roots: ₹250–350/kg (depending on quality & region)
- Organic premium rate: ₹400/kg+
Income (per acre)
Dry root yield approx. 500–700 kg per acre.
At ₹300/kg average:
Income = 600 kg × 300 = ₹1,80,000
Net Profit: ₹1.2 lakh – ₹1.4 lakh per acre
(After 18–24 months)
Value Addition Opportunities
- Shatavari powder
- Capsules/tablets
- Organic herbal supplements
- Contract farming with Ayurvedic companies
Why Shatavari is a Profitable Medicinal Crop?
- Low maintenance
- High demand in Ayurvedic industry
- Strong export potential (US, Europe, Middle East)
- Suitable for dry and semi-arid regions
- High profit per acre compared with cereals or pulses
Summary
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Crop duration | 18–24 months |
| Best soil | Well-drained sandy loam |
| Irrigation | Low to moderate |
| Yield | 5–7 quintal dry roots/acre |
| Profit | ₹1.2–1.4 lakh/acre |
| Key market | Ayurvedic & nutraceutical industries |
Conclusion
Shatavari is a resilient and highly profitable medicinal crop that fits well into India’s growing herbal and Ayurvedic market. It has low water needs. It experiences minimal pest issues. It can thrive on marginal land. These factors make it a dependable long-term income source for farmers. Its strong medicinal value drives consistent demand, ensuring attractive prices and stable market opportunities. Farmers wanting to diversify or shift towards high-value crops will find Shatavari a smart choice. It is sustainable and economically rewarding.
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