Australian Teak (MHAT-16): A Profitable Timber Species for Boosting Farmers' Income

Acacia, globally known as a family of more than 1200 species, holds immense commercial potential. In India, the common Acacia is often found in various regions, and even the catechu used in betel leaves comes from this tree family. Among these species, one variety stands out for its economic value and environmental benefits- Australian Teak (MHAT-16). Farmers in Australia and other countries have already experienced great success with commercial plantations of this valuable tree, earning substantial profits.

​The superior qualities of Australian Teak, such as hardness, density, strength, and the beauty of its grains, make its wood comparable to or even better than the Indian teak we know today. With the right care, MHAT-16 offers an unparalleled opportunity for Indian farmers to not only earn a great income but also contribute to reducing India's dependency on wood imports worth Rs 40 lakh crore annually.

Grown for its high commercial value, this variety can be cultivated across tropical and subtropical regions of India. Research and experimentation conducted over the past 30 years at Maa Danteshwari Herbal Farms and Research Center, Kondagaon have confirmed that MHAT-16 grows faster and stronger than other popular timber species like mahogany, sheesham, and even Malabar neem. This tree thrives with the added benefit of enriching the soil with nitrogen, making it an ideal choice for sustainable, eco-friendly farming.

1. The Right Seedling Selection:

Success in Australian Teak cultivation begins with selecting the right seedlings. MHAT-16 has been specifically developed for its rapid growth and strong root system, setting it apart from other varieties. Healthy seedlings with a well-established lateral root system and strong woody stems are the key to thriving plantations.

Key Takeaways:

• Disease-free, pest-resistant seedlings.

• Healthy, well-developed root systems.

• Strong and woody stems for better growth.

2. Planting the Seedlings (Outplanting):

Seedlings of Australian Teak (MHAT-16) are ready for planting within 3-5 months of age. For best results, plant them during the monsoon season or utilize irrigation systems to plant even up to March.

Key Takeaways:

• Seedling height: 25-40 cm.

• Monsoon is the best time for planting.

3. Propagation through Cuttings: A Cost-Effective Solution:

MHAT-16 can be grown effectively through stem cuttings, ensuring rapid growth and strong roots. The cuttings are treated with IBA (Indole-3-butyric acid) to promote faster root development.

Key Takeaways:

• For rapid root growth, use a mixture of vermicompost and clean sand.

4. Irrigation:

During the nursery stage, Australian Teak (MHAT-16) requires regular moisture. Once the roots are well-established in the fields, the plant can withstand drought conditions. However, irrigation can further boost growth rates, offering even better yields.

Key Takeaways:

• Provide regular water in hot weather.

• Adjust irrigation based on plant health and climate conditions.

5. Grading of Seedlings:

Ensuring that only high-quality seedlings are planted is critical for plantation success. The robust root system and thicker stems of MHAT-16 ensure fewer losses in the field, reducing the need for replanting.

Key Takeaways:

• High-quality, graded seedlings lead to better survival rates and higher success.

6. Incredible Economic Potential:

With MHAT-16, farmers can expect high-quality wood production within 10 years. This wood is as valuable if not more so, than traditional teak, offering tremendous profit potential.

Actual Income and Expenditure Analysis:

Plantation Details:

• Average number of trees to be planted per acre = 800

• Cost per tree = Rs 100-150 (Average: Rs 125)

Initial Costs:

• Total Initial Cost per acre = 800 trees x Rs 125 per tree = Rs 1,00,000

• Other Expenses (e.g., site preparation, planting) = Rs 16,000

• Total Initial Expenditure (A) = Rs 1,16,000

Maintenance Costs:

• Annual Maintenance Cost per acre = Rs 10,000 (Note: Maintenance costs reduce with increased acreage)

• Total Maintenance Cost over 10 years (B) = Rs 10,000 x 10 = Rs 1,00,000

Total Expenditure over 10 years:

A + B = Rs 1,16,000 + Rs 1,00,000 = Rs 2,16,000 (Rs 2.16 lakh)

Income:

• Average timber production per tree = 35 cubic feet,

• Estimated average minimum price per cubic foot (25% of the current teak price of Rs 5000/cubic foot) = Rs 1250/cubic foot

• Estimated productive trees (assuming 75% survival rate) = 600 out of 800

Total Timber Production:

• Total wood from 600 trees = 600 x 35 = 21,000 cubic feet,

• Value of timber = Rs 1250 x 21,000 cubic feet = Rs 2,62,50,000 (Rs 2.62 crore)

Net Income:

• Total Income over 10 years = Rs 2,62,50,000

• Total Expenditure over 10 years = Rs 2,16,000

• Net Income = Rs 2,62,50,000 - Rs 2,16,000 = Rs 2,60,34,000 (Rs 2.60 crore approx)

Average Annual Income:

Net Income per year = Rs 2,60,34,000 ÷ 10 years = Rs 26,03,400 (Approximately Rs 26 lakh per year)

Note: This calculation is based on the minimum estimated price of Rs 1250 per cubic foot for the timber and assumes 600 productive trees out of 800 planted per acre. With better care, higher yields and a higher price for the wood, earnings could potentially double, reaching up to Rs 5 crore per acre.

Key Takeaways:

• Rapid growth, with high returns within 10 years.

• Australian Teak wood is in high demand due to its superior quality.

7. Intercropping: Boost Your Income

Why stop at wood production? With MHAT-16, farmers can also grow black pepper (MDBP-16) on the trees, earning an additional Rs 5-15 lakh annually. Along with this, cultivating medicinal and aromatic plants between the trees allows for additional profits from the available land.

Key Takeaways:

• Intercrop with black pepper for Rs 5-15 lakh extra income per acre.

• Grow medicinal and aromatic plants to increase earnings.

Conclusion:

Acacia Mangium (MHAT-16) is an ideal option for farmers looking to increase their income while contributing to environmental sustainability. This fast-growing, eco-friendly species offers high-quality wood, enhances soil fertility, and allows for significant intercropping benefits. With potential profits reaching up to Rs 5 crore per acre within 10 years, and additional income from intercropping, MHAT-16 is a golden opportunity that no farmer can afford to miss!

Why Farmers Should Choose MHAT-16:

1. Fast-Growing & High-Yield: Earn crores from one acre of land in just 10 years.

2. Superior Quality Wood: Comparable to the best teak, this wood is highly demanded in the market.

3. Sustainable & Eco-Friendly: Enriches the soil and reduces the need for fertilizers.

4. Intercropping Benefits: Maximize profits by growing black pepper and medicinal plants.

5. Organic Fertilizer: Produce 6 tons of organic green manure from the tree's leaves annually.

6. Market-Ready: Farmers across the world are reaping the rewards of Australian Teak—don’t miss out on this opportunity!

Recommendation:

By adopting MHAT-16, farmers can ensure financial prosperity while playing a crucial role in sustainable agriculture. The superior qualities of this species make it a golden investment, and with proper management, it can transform your land into a wealth-generating asset.

(Source: Maa Danteshwari Herbal Farms & Research Center, Kondagaon, Chhattisgarh)