Assessment of germinability, productivity and cost benefit analysis of Picrorhiza kurrooa cultivated at lower altitudes

Cultivation of Picrorhiza kurrooa Royle ex Benth, a small creeping, highly medicinal and endangered species of alpine region was observed at comparati vely lower altitude than its natural habitat. Germination was observed bett er inside polyhouse at 15-20 degreesC temperature in sandy soil with litter treatment and high-moisture content. Vegetative propagation was done succe ssfully through stolon segments by using hormonal as well as convenient and simple methods, viz. water-dip treatment and use of high-moisture trenches for rooting in cuttings, which can be easily used for cultivation purpose by local growers. Top segments were found more suitable for multiplication. Yield measured in different landforms, i.e. raised and levelled grounds in dicated that the latter was more suitable for better survival, growth and p roduction. Similarly, intercropping with other economically beneficial plan ts was successfully observed and Foeniculum vulgare and Solanum tuberosum w ere recommended for intercropping. Forest litter was observed better for hi gher production by using broad-leaf variety and maximum production was esti mated at Pothivasa (1092 kg/ha). For cultivation of P. kurrooa, broad-leaf variety, forest litter treatment, levelled ground and intercropping with pl ants able to retain moisture in the soil for growing plants, and altitude o f 2200 m were endorsed as best for higher production. Cost benefit analysis after third year of cultivation indicated benefits of Rs 87,600/ha based o n maximum production. Thus the cultivation of P. kurrooa can provide not on ly an alternate income-generating resource, but can also provide the opport unity for self-employment.