1.4 Plant protection
Not much problems of insect pests and diseases
have been observed in this crop from any part of
the country. However, mealy bug, anthracnose
and leaf spots have been reported from some
parts of the country. Sometime termite problem
has also been observed which can be easily
managed by giving a light irrigation.
It can also be propagated through rhizome
cuttings. In this case, after the harvest of the crop,
the underground rhizome is also dug out and
made in 5-6 cm long cuttings which has at least
2-3 nodes on them. Rooting is done in specially
prepared sand beds or containers and after it starts
sprouting, transplanting is carried out. On an
Journal of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry
Vol. 1 No. 4 2012 www.phytojournal.com Page | 121
average, about 25000 suckers are required for a
nursery of 1 ha size (10000 for 1 acre nursery).