The Ernakulam Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) has launched a project to revive Lemon grass cultivation in the district. A major breakthrough was achieved with the successful testing of a reaper for harvesting the grass to address manpower shortages. The testing was done in collaboration with Kerala Agricultural University and Kerala Agro Machinery Corporation Ltd (KAMCO). Trials at the Aromatic and Medicinal Plants Research Station in Odakkali demonstrated that KAMCO’s KR120H model reaper is suitable, harvesting an acre per hour. The KVK will subsequently showcase varieties Sugandhi and Krishna respectively from Kerala Agricultural University and CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (CIMAP) in farmers’ fields.

KVK will also collaborate with the Bengaluru Research Centre of CSIR-CIMAP to set up a Lemon grass distillation unit under their Aroma Mission. This will lead to the production of oil and also value-added products using the oil like soap, mosquito repellents, and fresheners, with a branded marketing aimed at enhancing farmers’ income and promoting sustainable farming.

Once the epicenter of lemon grass trade, the eastern region of Ernakulam, especially Perumbavoor, is poised for a revival. Ideal areas for cultivation should have ample sunlight and good drainage. The first harvest is in three months post-planting and subsequent harvests every two months.