Pigeonpea is a popular pulse crop grown extensively in India and other countries. However, flower dropping is a major problem that pigeonpea farmers face. Flower dropping is the premature shedding of flowers before they are fertilized, leading to poor yields. Luckily, there are management practices that farmers can adopt to minimize flower dropping.
1. Proper irrigation and soil management
Pigeonpea requires adequate soil moisture for proper growth and development. Lack of water can lead to flower shedding, especially in the reproductive stage. Farmers should aim to keep soil moisture levels consistent by irrigating at regular intervals. Overwatering, on the other hand, can lead to waterlogged soils and cause flower dropping.
2. Fertility management
Pigeonpea plants require optimal nutrient availability for proper growth and development. Deficiencies in specific nutrients such as phosphorus can lead to flower abortion. Farmers should ensure proper soil testing and application of fertilizers according to soil nutrient requirements.
3. Pest and disease management
Several pests and diseases can attack pigeonpea plants leading to flower dropping. Common pests include pod borers and pod fly, while diseases include wilt and leaf spot. Farmers should adopt appropriate pest and disease management strategies to control infestations and prevent flower dropping.
4. Plant density management
Too high or low plant densities can lead to flower dropping in pigeonpea. Farmers should plant pigeonpea at optimal spacing, which varies based on the cultivar and soil type. Proper spacing allows for ample light penetration, airflow, and nutrient availability, which promote healthy plant growth and minimize flower dropping.
5. Crop rotation and weed management
Crop rotation and weed management practices are essential in maintaining healthy pigeonpea plant growth and minimizing flower dropping. Farmers should rotate pigeonpea with other crops to reduce pests and disease build-up and improve soil health. Additionally, weed control measures such as manual weeding and herbicide application prevent competition between weeds and the crop, leading to optimal growth and development.
In conclusion, proper management practices are essential in reducing flower dropping in pigeonpea crops. Farmers should adopt practices such as proper irrigation and soil management, fertility management, pest and disease control, plant density management, crop rotation, and weed management. Implementing these practices will lead to higher pigeonpea yields and profitability for farmers.