Moringa Farming in Nepal: A Complete Guide for Beginners
Moringa oleifera—commonly known as drumstick or “Sahijan”—is emerging as a profitable superfood crop in Nepal. Rich in nutrients and adaptable to a range of climates, moringa farming offers great opportunities for farmers, agro-entrepreneurs, and health-conscious investors.
Why Start Moringa Farming in Nepal?
Nepal’s tropical to sub-tropical climate, especially in the Terai and mid-hill regions, is ideal for growing moringa. The plant is drought-resistant, low-maintenance, and produces valuable products such as:
- Moringa seeds (used for oil extraction and planting)
- Moringa leaves (used in powders, capsules, and teas)
- Moringa pods (vegetable use)
- Moringa oil (cosmetic and medicinal purposes)
Step-by-Step Guide to Starting Moringa Farming in Nepal
1. Land Selection and Preparation
- Choose well-drained sandy or loamy soil with pH 6.0–7.5.
- Ideal elevation: below 1,200 meters.
- Plow the land thoroughly and add organic compost.
2. Sourcing Moringa Seeds or Saplings
- Use certified seeds from reputed suppliers like Durga Beej Bhandar or local agro-vets.
- One hectare requires approx. 2–3 kg of seeds.
3. Planting
- Best time: March–May (spring) or June–July (monsoon).
- Spacing: 3 x 3 meters for seed production, 1 x 1 meter for leaf production.
- Seeds can be directly sown or seedlings transplanted after 15–20 days.
4. Crop Care & Maintenance
- Water lightly during dry spells (drip irrigation recommended).
- Use cow dung or compost every 3–4 months.
- Apply organic neem oil or bio-pesticides for pest control.
- Prune trees to encourage more leaf growth.
5. Harvesting
- Leaves: first harvest after 3 months, then every 35–45 days.
- Pods: harvest in 6–8 months.
- Seeds: ready in 8–12 months.
Cost of Moringa Farming in Nepal (per hectare)
| Item | Approx. Cost (NPR) |
|---|---|
| Land Preparation | 20,000 – 30,000 |
| Seeds/Saplings | 15,000 – 25,000 |
| Fertilizers & Pesticides | 10,000 – 15,000 |
| Labor (planting to harvest) | 50,000 – 60,000 |
| Irrigation | 15,000 – 20,000 |
| Miscellaneous | 10,000 – 15,000 |
| Total | 120,000 – 165,000 |
Profit and Yield
- Leaf yield: 10–15 tons/year/hectare
- Seed yield: 2–3 tons/year/hectare
- Pod yield: 25–30 tons/year/hectare
- Income: NPR 300,000 – 600,000 annually (depending on product and market)
Where to Sell Moringa Products in Nepal
Local Markets:
- Farmers’ markets in major cities (Kathmandu, Pokhara, Chitwan)
- Organic stores and health shops
- Ayurvedic centers
Bulk Buyers:
- Herbal companies (e.g., Himalayan Herbs, Dabur Nepal)
- Ayurvedic medicine producers
- Cosmetic manufacturers
- Exporters dealing with health and superfood products
Online Platforms:
- Daraz, MeroShopping
- Facebook Marketplace
- Careplus Nepal (partner with them for product listings)
Final Thoughts With growing demand for superfoods and organic products, moringa farming is a sustainable and profitable option for Nepali farmers. By focusing on quality, certification, and smart marketing, you can build a successful moringa business.
📌 For more farming tips, training, or moringa seed inquiries, contact CarePlusNepal.com – your trusted source for agri-health solutions in Nepal.