As pointed gourd plants grow, it is essential to manage the nutrients to ensure a healthy and productive yield. Proper nutrient management can help increase the market value of the pointed gourd, making it a profitable crop for farmers. Here is how you can manage the nutrient in pointed gourd plants after 30 days of planting.
1. Understanding Nutrient Requirement
Before starting nutrient management, it is crucial to know the nutrient requirements of the pointed gourd plant. Based on the soil test reports, you can determine the appropriate amount of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium required. It is also important to note that pointed gourd plants require a balanced ratio of nutrients for optimal growth and development.
2. Organic Manure and Fertilizers
Organic manure is a vital source of nutrients for pointed gourd plants after 30 days of planting. Applying 5-7 tonnes of well-decomposed cow-dung per hectare at the time of land preparation can help provide a continuous supply of organic nutrients to the plants. Additionally, you can apply inorganic fertilizers to supplement the organic manure. Apply 20-25kg of NPK (20:20:10) per hectare through broadcast method at the time of planting.
3. Soil pH management
Pointed gourd plants prefer soil pH ranges from 6.0 to 7.5. The soil pH outside of this range may cause nutrient deficiency or toxicity in plants. Proper soil pH management can help enhance the uptake of applied nutrients. If you notice the soil pH outside of this range, you can apply lime to raise the pH level or sulfur to lower it.
4. Foliar Application
Foliar application of nutrients can help address nutrient deficiency in plants. A solution of urea, potassium sulfate, and magnesium sulfate (0.5 % each) sprayed on the leaves can help improve the photosynthetic ability of the plant. Additionally, it helps in the absorption of nutrients, as the foliage is the primary site of nutrient absorption.
Final Thoughts:
Proper nutrient management is critical to producing a healthy crop of pointed gourd. An ideal balance between organic manure and fertilizers, soil pH management, and foliar application can enhance the plant’s overall health and productivity. After 30 days of planting, nutrient management will ensure a successful harvest of high-quality pointed gourd.