Propagation

Jatropha is normally propagated through seeds. It can even be propagated through stem cuttings. When propagated through seeds, well developed plump seeds are selected for sowing. Before sowing, seeds are soaked in cow dung solution for 12 hours and then kept under the wet jute bags for 12 hours. The seeds start germinating. These germinated seeds are then sown in poly bags of about 10 x 20 cm size filled with red soil, sand and farm yard manure in the ratio of 1:1:1 respectively. These plants are kept under controlled conditions with proper manure and water for 2-3 months. Within this time, the plant reaches a stage wherein it can be put in fields. When propagating through stem cuttings, the stems from healthy plants are cut and directly planted in plastic bags. After 2-3 months, they too become full plants with roots.
These plants are then planted in large fields on 2 Meters X 2 meters basis. This way, about 1000 plants are planted in 1 acre of land or 2500 plants are planted on 1 hectare of land.