Teak Farming in India 2026
India's classic premium timber, but a genuine 15 to 20 plus year long-term investment.
Overview
Teak (Tectona grandis), known as sagwan or sagaun, is India's most famous timber tree, prized for strong, durable, beautiful wood used in furniture, doors, boats and construction. It commands high prices and steady demand, which makes it a popular long-term plantation choice. Be honest about the timeline: good quality teak timber generally needs 15 to 20 years or more, and value comes mostly from larger girth logs of the later years. Early thinnings give small income but the main return is far off. Teak does best on deep, well drained, fertile soil and suffers on waterlogged or poor sites. Returns can be strong over the full rotation but capital is locked for a long time, and profit figures vary widely by region, management and final log grade. With patience and suitable land, teak remains a reliable wealth building tree rather than a quick earner.
Climate
Warm tropical climate, 800 to 2500 mm rainfall with a distinct dry season, temperatures around 15 to 40 degrees Celsius. Grows across central, southern and parts of northern India. Sensitive to frost when young.
Soil
Deep, well drained, fertile alluvial or loamy soils with good calcium give the best teak, pH 6.5 to 7.5. Avoid waterlogged, shallow, very sandy or acidic soils, where growth and timber quality suffer.
Planting & Spacing
Common spacing is 10 ft x 10 ft giving about 435 trees per acre, 12 ft x 12 ft about 300, or wider 15 ft x 15 ft about 190 to 200 trees per acre. Closer spacing needs thinning over time. Plant quality clonal stumps or seedlings at the onset of monsoon.
Varieties
Improved clonal teak and tissue cultured plants from reliable sources give faster, more uniform growth than ordinary seedlings. Quality planting material strongly affects girth and timber value over the long rotation, so choose proven clones.
Care & Management
Weed and water in early years, apply manure and fertiliser, and prune lower branches for clean straight boles. Thin the stand at intervals so remaining trees gain girth, which is where most value lies. Protect young plants from fire, grazing and frost.
Pests & Diseases
Teak defoliator and skeletoniser caterpillars can damage foliage, and stem borers and root rot may occur. Most damage is manageable with monitoring, good drainage and fire protection. Healthy vigorous trees tolerate pests better.
Yield & Harvest
Good quality timber generally needs 15 to 20 years or more, with thinnings giving smaller income earlier. Mature trees may yield around 12 to 18 cubic feet each, and teak has commonly fetched roughly Rs 2000 to Rs 4000 per cubic foot or more for premium grades, though realised prices vary widely. Confirm felling and transit rules before harvest.
Cost & Profit
Teak can build substantial value over 15 to 20 years, but capital is locked for a long time and returns depend on girth, grade, region and management. Some claims of huge percentage profits assume top prices and ideal growth, so plan conservatively and use early thinnings and intercrops for interim income.
These are indicative ranges. Actual cost and income vary by region, market and management, so verify locally.
Market & Demand
Strong, steady demand from furniture makers, builders, sawmills and timber traders, both domestic and export. Premium teak from certain regions fetches especially high prices. Reach larger timber markets and grade your logs well to get the best price for mature wood.
Subsidy & Support
Teak is a recognised agroforestry and plantation species and can be supported under the Sub-Mission on Agroforestry (SMAF) for quality planting material in states with relaxed transit rules. Felling and transit permit rules still vary by state, so confirm current requirements with your District Forest Officer before harvest.
Where to grow it in India
Frequently asked questions
How many years does teak take to harvest?
What soil is best for teak?
How many teak trees can I plant per acre?
Do I need permits to cut and sell teak?
Is teak a good investment for quick income?
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