Novel Systems for Cultivation of Burmese Coriander in Urban Areas

Burmese coriander or culantro is a popular herb cultivated and utilized extensively in the Islands. This herb is known for its refreshing cilantro-like aroma. Strong aroma, long shelf life and better adaptability make it a suitable crop for cultivation in the islands. Produce fetches high prices in the markets around Port Blair. To promote its cultivation in urban areas, novel technologies viz. ‘CIARI- ProDhaniya’ and ‘CIARI- ProDhaniya Multi’ have been developed by ICAR-CIARI. Former method is suitable for cultivation of Burmese coriander for home scale production, whereas the latter is for large scale production. Developed technologies involve growing the herb in pro-trays filled with suitable substrate. In traditional cultivation, these plants are spaced 15-20 cm apart thereby requiring more space to cultivate. However, in pro-trays, planting cells are closely spaced but roots of each plant get separate space to grow. Hence, fifty plants could be accommodated in less than two square feet size. In CIARI- ProDhaniya Multi, pro-trays are arranged in racks thereby utilizing the vertical space. Considering the limited spaces available in the urban areas, one can easily maintain a few racks on the rooftops, balconies and backyards to grow this prized herb. Both methods are semi-intensive; require less maintenance and less investment. Depending upon the growing conditions and management practices followed, each pro-tray could produce about 500 g of fresh produce. Hence, one can easily harvest the desirable quantity of herb from their urban gardens.

Benefit:Through this compact method of cultivation, within limited space, Burmese coriander could be produced for home and commercial purposes in urban areas.

Source : Contact person with Name, Designation e-mail and phone no: Dr. Ajit Arun Waman, Scientist (SPMA), Division of Horticulture and Forestry, ICAR-Central Island Agricultural Research Institute, Port Blair. Email: ajit.arun@icar.gov.in, Mob.: 9933263441.