Published Oct 31, 2023
It requires well-drained, loamy soil with good organic content. A pH range of 6.0-7.5 is ideal, ensuring proper aeration and water for the successful growth of sandalwood trees.
Sandalwood thrives in a tropical climate with temperatures between 20-35°C, receiving 1000-2000 mm of annual rainfall. Requires a distinct dry period to induce heartwood formation.
Sandalwood is planted in well-prepared soil at a spacing of 3x3 meters. It grows slowly, taking 15-20 years to reach harvestable heartwood, which is highly valuable and maintained.
Sandalwood benefits from fertilizers like well-rotted manure and neem cake during the early years. After 5-7 years, reduced nitrogen is applied to encourage heartwood formation.
It requires moderate and consistent irrigation early, reducing as the tree matures. Drip irrigation is recommended, maintaining soil moisture without waterlogging to grow.
Sandalwood is harvested after 15-20 years when heartwood matures. The tree is carefully uprooted. Sustainable harvesting practices ensure long-term sandalwood availability.