How to Grow Rudraksha Tree | Elaeocarpus ganitrus Plant Care

Rudraksha Tree holds tremendous importance and Hinduism. If you want to grow it in your garden, then here are all the details!

The Rudraksha Tree belongs to the Elaeocarpaceae family and grows quite well in the tropical climate of India. We will guide you on how to grow it easily in your garden!

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What is Rudraksha Tree?

Rudraksha Tree is an evergreen specimen that can grow to 60-80 feet. It is famous for the Rudraksha beads that grow on it. There are about 35 species of this plant, but the original rudraksha tree is the most famous, expanding from the Gangetic plains to the Himalayan foothills. It is a fast-growing tree that can start to bear fruits after 3-4 years of planting.

Botanical Name: Elaeocarpus ganitrus

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Rudraksha Tree in India

Rudraksha Tree holds tremendous importance in the Hindu religion. The word “Rudraksha” has its origin in the Sanskrit language. It is made from two words, Rudra (Lord Shiva) and aksha (eye). This means that the auspicious beads are considered the third eye of Lord Shiva. It is an essential bead that people use during prayers.

It is said that Lord Shiva wears a garland of Rudraksha Tree. This mala is often made from 108 beads and used by many Hindus during prayers. Moreover, the trees in the Himalayan regions are considered quite powerful. The Himalaya, or Kailash is the abode of Lord Shiva, according to the scriptures.

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How to Grow Rudraksha Tree at Home

Growing the Rudraksha Tree at home can be an excellent idea, as it also has many health benefits. All parts of the tree have one or the other medicinal properties. 

Propagating Rudraksha Tree

It is always better to buy a healthy plant for the nursery. You can also propagate this plant through seeds in your garden or pot. All you have to do is to collect the seeds from Rudraksha Tree. You have to break them into two as it is vital to open the cover on the outside, as the seeds will not germinate under the hard woody cover.

Choosing a Pot

If you wish to grow your plant in a pot, pick one 18-20 inches deep and at least 7-10 inches wide. Another thing to make sure is that your container must have good drainage.

Soil

Using well-draining soil rich in compost is ideal. Before putting the soil in the container, add some gravel and pebbles to the pot’s base.

Location

The Himalayan states have the best climate to grow these trees, as the temperatures remain moderate even during summers. It is best to keep them under shade in places with temperatures higher than 40°C.

Watering

Water only when the topsoil feels a little dry to the touch when the plant is young. You won’t have to worry about watering it once it establishes itself and grows 8-10 feet tall.

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Rudraksha Tree Care

Fertilizer

Use a good amount of gobar ki khaad regularly to feed the tree. You can also use a balanced liquid fertlizer once in 4-6 weeks when the plant is young. Do not feed it in winter.

Pests and Diseases

It is generally free from pests or diseases in tropical and subtropical climates like India. But it tends to absorb water fast, leading to root rot and fungal infections.

Avoid wetting the foliage to keep the diseases at bay.

Pruning

Pruning the Rudraksha Tree, when it attains a height of 8-12 feet, will encourage the growth of new branches, helping the plant grow wider rather than taller. Besides, the greater the number of branches, the higher the fruit production of the tree!

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Benefits of Rudraksha Tree

Besides its spiritual importance, it holds medicinal properties. Ayurveda lists multiple uses of all tree parts in treating multiple diseases. 

• Its leaves have various antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Thus, during ancient times, they were useful in treating wounds. These leaves can also help treat conditions like epilepsy, migraine, and headache.
• The paste of its nuts and rose water works wonders for the skin. It heals, moisturizes, and rejuvenates.
• According to Ayurveda, its nuts can also help in blood purification. It reduces the number of impurities in blood and promotes healthy blood circulation in the body.
• Its beads also have anti-inflammatory properties.

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Traditional Properties of Rudraksha Tree

• Keeping the beads helps treat anxiety and stress while improving the focus of an individual.
• It also attracts positive energy and cools down the temperature of the body.
• Wearing Rudraksha beads can help treat various ailments and improve general well-being.