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Sowing time and varieties of summer pearl millet crop
Summer pearl millet crop is one of the popular summer crops in India. It is a hardy crop that can withstand high temperatures and drought conditions. Pearl millet is cultivated for its grain, fodder, and straw. In India, pearl millet is grown in various regions and soil conditions. Here, we will discuss the sowing time and varieties of summer pearl millet crop.
Sowing time
The sowing time of pearl millet depends on the region and weather conditions. Generally, pearl millet is sown during April to June in India. In northern India, pearl millet is sown during May to June after the first spell of summer rains. In southern India, pearl millet is sown during April to May, before the onset of monsoon rains. The sowing depth should be 2-3 cm in light soils and 4-5 cm in heavy soils.
Varieties
There are various varieties of summer pearl millet available in India. The choice of variety depends on the region, soil, and other factors. Here are some popular varieties of summer pearl millet crop in India:
1. Hybrid BH-185: This variety is suitable for irrigated, rainfed, and shallow soil conditions. It has a high yield potential and good tolerance to diseases and pests.
2. Hybrid HHB-67: This variety is suitable for irrigated and high rainfall regions. It has a high yield potential and good tillering capacity.
3. Hybrid HB-1: This variety is suitable for rainfed, low soil fertility, and drought-prone regions. It has good tolerance to diseases and pests.
4. Hybrid Jumbo Bajra: This variety is suitable for dryland farming. It has a high yield potential and good resistance to lodging.
5. Hybrid Ageer-4: This variety is suitable for rainfed and marginal lands. It has good tolerance to drought and pests.
Conclusion
Summer pearl millet crop is an important crop for farmers in India. The sowing time and variety selection play a vital role in the success of pearl millet cultivation. The farmer should choose the appropriate variety and sowing time based on their region, soil, and other factors. Proper management practices such as timely weeding, fertilization, and pest control can lead to a high yield of pearl millet crop.