Bengal Gram Crop: Sowing Time, Benefits and Harvesting
Bengal Gram, also known as Chana or Gram, is an important pulse crop that is grown in India and other parts of the world. It is a hardy crop that can withstand drought and other adverse conditions. Bengal Gram is an important source of protein and other nutrients and is widely used in Indian cuisine. In this article, we will discuss the sowing time for Bengal Gram crop, its benefits and harvesting.
Sowing Time
The sowing time for Bengal Gram crop is from October to December. The crop requires a warm and dry climate for growth. The ideal temperature for sowing Bengal Gram is around 20-25°C. The crop can be grown on a range of soil types, but it requires good drainage. The seeds are sown at a depth of 3-4 cm and at a spacing of 20-25 cm.
Benefits
Bengal Gram crop has numerous benefits. Here are a few:
1. High in Nutrients: Bengal Gram is rich in protein, iron, and other nutrients. It is a good source of energy and can help in weight management.
2. Helps in Digestion: Bengal Gram is known to aid digestion and can help in the prevention of constipation.
3. Good for Heart Health: Bengal Gram contains potassium which can help in maintaining healthy blood pressure levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
4. Low Glycemic Index: Bengal Gram has a low glycemic index, which means it does not cause a spike in blood sugar levels.
5. Environmental Benefits: Bengal Gram crop is a legume crop that can fix atmospheric nitrogen in the soil. This can reduce the need for chemical fertilizers and improve soil health.
Harvesting
Bengal Gram crop takes around 90-100 days to mature. The crop is ready for harvest when the pods have turned pale yellow and the leaves have dropped. The plants are uprooted and dried in the sun for a few days. The grains are then separated from the pods and stored in a dry and cool place.
In conclusion, Bengal Gram crop is an important pulse crop that has numerous benefits for human health and the environment. The sowing time for Bengal Gram crop is from October to December. The crop requires a warm and dry climate for growth and can be grown on a range of soil types. The crop takes around 90-100 days to mature and is ready for harvest when the pods have turned pale yellow and the leaves have dropped.