Cultural Practices

i. Varieties/Types/Clones released/identified

Cheemathipali, Viswam

ii. Propagation methods and planting time

Rooted vine cuttings and suckers. Soon after the onset of monsoon

iii. Fertilizer doses

Mostly grown as an under crop on residual fertility. 20 t FYM/ha. Application of inorganic fertilizers are not yet reported.

iv .Irrigation schedule

During summer, one irrigation/week. Sprinkler irrigation is also beneficial.

v. Diseases, pests and their control

Leaf and vine rot & necrotic spots and blights on leaves (1% spray of Bordeaux mixture). Mealy bug attack (any systemic insecticides). Adults and nymphs of Helopeltis

theivora attack (neems seed kernel extract @ 0.25%).

6. Biochemical analysis (Active ingredients)

Piperine and Piplartin

7. Post Harvest Management

The first harvest from vines is available after six months of planting. Spike are ready for harvest after two months of formation. Harvested spikes and roots are sundried

and stored in moisture proof bags. The produce fetches price according to the grade.