Black gram, also known as urad or mungo beans, is a highly nutritious pulse crop that is widely cultivated in India and other Asian countries. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in cultivating black gram in wetland areas, particularly in areas with clay soils. This is because black gram is well-suited to these conditions and can be grown as a monocrop or as part of a mixed cropping system.
Wetland soils, particularly those with high clay content, are known for their water-holding capacity. This makes them ideal for black gram cultivation since the crop requires a consistently moist growing environment. Additionally, the high organic matter content in clay soils provides the necessary nutrients to support healthy plant growth and development.
Before starting cultivation, the soil should be tested to determine its suitability for black gram cultivation. A pH range of 6.0-7.5 is optimal for growing black gram in wetland areas. The land should be leveled and a proper drainage system should be established to ensure that the soil does not become waterlogged during heavy rains.
The ideal time for planting black gram in wetland clay soils is during the monsoon season, which runs from June to September. The seeds should be sown at a depth of 2-3 cm in rows approximately 45 cm apart. Depending on the variety of black gram being grown, seed rate can range from 2-5 kg per acre.
Black gram requires regular irrigation, particularly during the initial stages of growth. However, excessive irrigation should be avoided as it can lead to waterlogging and disease. The crop should be fertilized using a balanced NPK (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium) fertilizer at the rate of 30-40 kg per acre. Organic fertilizers like farmyard manure can also be used to supplement soil nutrients.
The crop matures in approximately 90-100 days and can be harvested once the pods have fully developed. Harvesting should be done manually or using a machine, ensuring that the plants are cut close to the ground to avoid any damage to the soil. After harvesting, the pods are cleaned, threshed, and stored in a cool and dry place.
Black gram is an important crop for both food security and income generation in many rural communities. Its cultivation in wetland clay soils offers an opportunity to increase yields and sustain livelihoods, while also contributing to the conservation of these important ecosystems.