Chittaratha is propagated by rhizomes. Fresh healthy disease-free rhizome bits with at least one shoot are taken as planting material. Around 4000-6000 kg rhizome will be needed for one acre.

Rainfed crop is planted with the onset of monsoon in May-June. Irrigated crop can be planted any time.

Plough the field to good tilth. Remove all pebbles and stones. Organic manure @ 60 kg/cent has to be applied at the time of land preparation.

Prepare raised beds of convenient length and breadth. Ensure proper drainage of the field.  Take small pits on the seedbed.  Plant 5 cm long rhizome bits. Mulch the seedbed with leaves or straw.

The optimum spacing is 40 cm x 30 cm under good fertility and 30 cm x 20 cm under poor fertility conditions.

Application of biofertilizer Azospirillum @ 4 kg/ acre and in situ green manuring with cowpea are beneficial for the crop.