castor oil plant Grow in Balcony: If you like herbal-lifestyle, DIY oil or product, then ricin plant will prove to be the most power packed plant in your balcony. It is just important to apply it correctly. Know how to install it in less space.
If you want to make castor oil at home and are fond of natural skin-hair care, then Ricinus Communis i.e. castor plant is the perfect option for you. Many people know it as ricin poison plant because its seeds contain a toxin called ricin, but when handled properly, this plant is an excellent source of pure castor oil. The most important thing is that you can grow it in just one big pot in the balcony of your house. Learn how to apply, handle and make your own homemade castor oil.
How to plant ricin i.e. castor plant in the balcony
- Take a pot of at least 16–18 inches, there must be drainage holes at the bottom to drain the water.
- The plant prefers light and drained soil. In the soil mixture – keep 50% garden soil, 30% compost and 20% sand.
- You can start from seeds or small plants. Sow the seeds in the soil at a depth of 1 inch.
- Seedlings emerge in 7–10 days. This plant needs 6–7 hours of bright sunlight. Keep it in the balcony where there is plenty of sunlight.
- Water 2–3 times a week only when the soil feels dry. Too much water can weaken the plant.
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How to care for castor plant?
Apply organic fertilizer once a month. This plant grows rapidly, maintain air flow by cutting off large leaves. In winter, water less, this plant is less affected by insects, hence it does not require much maintenance. After 4–6 months of planting the castor plant, seed pods start appearing in the plant. These pods dry up and burst and seeds come out from inside, from which castor oil is made. First wait for the beans to dry completely and wear gloves, then gently pick the beans.
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How to remove castor oil at home?
- Dry the seeds in sunlight for 2–3 days.
- Carefully remove the hard shell of the seed. (Remember that both the peel and the seeds contain ricin, so it is important to wear gloves.)
- Grind the seeds lightly.
- Boil water in a pan, add ground seeds.
- Cook on low flame for 45–60 minutes.
- The oil from the seeds starts floating upwards.
- Remove the oil floating on top with a spoon, filter it and store it. This is your homemade castor oil, very effective for both skin and hair.
- Keep in mind that this home method is for small scale use.