Grow Ashvagandha In Home Lawn – Ayurveda has offered a treasure of medicinal and healing herbs to the world. Many immensely effective herbs that gently heal the human body and mind have been used in this age-old system of well-being for thousands of years. Ashwagandha, the Indian Ginseng or winter cherry, as it is known to the western culture, is one such magical herb that has a wealth of benefits to offer. It detoxifies and rejuvenates the body cells, cures impotence, and infertility and strengthens the immune system. Lets’ learn how to grow Ashwagandha in your home lawn.
Climatic conditions
Ashwagandha, being native to the Indian sub-continent, prefers a fairly dry and warm climate. Enough sunlight and minimal watering are all that this shrub needs to thrive even in a dry, sandy or rocky land.
Selecting the right spot
This bush grows well in open spaces like your home lawn rather than in the confines of a container. Selecting a spot that will offer the right conditions for the growth of this plant is important. Choose a spot in your home lawn that receives plenty of sunlight throughout the day. It is preferable that the spot is well-sheltered from strong winds. Make sure that the temperature is maintained around 21 degree Celsius.
Choosing the right soil
Ashwagandha does not need any particularly prepared soil or any other special medium. Using a well-drained soil is crucial as this plant prefers dry conditions. A sandy, rocky or loamy soil that is rich in nutrients doesn’t hold too much water and keeps the conditions warm enough is perfect for the plant to thrive without any special care.
Planting
Early spring or mid-April is the best time to plant the seeds. This is the period when the climate is dry and warm just as needed for this plant. You can sow the seeds directly in the soil in the home lawn or first prepare your seedlings in pots indoors and then transfer them to the home lawn soil. The germination takes about 2-3 weeks. Keeping the soil moist during the seed germination process is important.
Watering the plant
Ashwagandha is a hardy shrub that does not require any excess watering during its growing stages. Just keep the soil wet enough for the plant to be able to absorb the nutrients in the soil. Let the soil get dry in between two consecutive watering. Sunrise and sunset are the best periods for watering the plant.
Fertilizing
This plant does not require any special fertilizing and grows well on the nutrients available in an organically enriched soil.
Pest control
The plant does not need any special pest control measures as it is mostly unaffected by insects or diseases.
Harvesting
It is the root of the Ashwagandha plant that has medicinal and healing properties. You can harvest the roots when the plant grows to a height more than 3-4 feet. The red cherry-like fruits can also be used to obtain seeds that you can use for further planting.
Growing a plant like Ashwagandha is a great addition to your home garden as it has many medicinal benefits to offer.
