Variability in herbage yield and essential oil content of different genotypes of Cymbopogon

Three cultivars viz Chilharit, Karishna and CKP-25 of Cymbopogon flexuosus, two cultivars viz Bio-13 and Jor Lab C-2 of C winterianus and two cultivars viz Tarishna and PRC of C martinii were planted at different densities (60 x 30 cm, 60 x 45 cm, 75 x 75 cm) at experimental farm of Horticultural Regional Research Station, Dhaulakuan, Sirmour, HP during July 2010 for yield and essential oil content evaluation. Significant variations were observed for all the growth and yield parameters in tested genotypes planted at various densities. Higher herbage yield to the tune of 8 per cent was recorded at low planting density (75 x 75 cm) as compared to higher planting density (60 x 30 cm.). Oil content was high in summer season harvest as compared to winter season at low planting density of 75 x 75 cm.