Black gram is a highly nutritious crop that is grown in India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. It is also known as urad dal or black lentil. It is a highly valuable crop known for its protein content and is cultivated in many parts of India for commercial purposes.
Black gram grows well in warm and humid conditions. It is a heavy feeder of nutrients and requires adequate quantities of nutrients to yield a better harvest. Proper basal fertilizer management is essential to maintain the soil fertility and maximize the crop yield.
Basal fertilizer management refers to the application of fertilizers at the time of planting. The application of basal fertilizers helps in improved root development, early and vigorous growth, and better crop yields. Here are some tips for black gram basal fertilizer management:
1. Soil test:
Before applying the fertilizers, it is important to conduct a soil test to determine the nutrient content of the soil. Based on the soil test, a fertilizer dose can be calculated, and the required nutrients can be applied.
2. Fertilizer application:
Black gram requires a high dose of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. The ratio of these nutrients depends on the soil type and nutrient content. Broadly, a fertilizer dose of 30:60:30 kg of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium per hectare is recommended. It is important to apply the fertilizers uniformly on the soil surface and mix with the top layer of soil.
3. Time of application:
Basal fertilizers should be applied at the time of sowing or transplanting. It is important to apply the fertilizers before planting the seeds. The fertilizers can be applied in two splits, the first at the time of sowing and the second after 25-30 days of sowing.
4. Organic manure:
The application of organic manure along with chemical fertilizers is beneficial for black gram. The organic manure helps in enhancing the soil fertility, nutrient availability, and water retention capacity of the soil. The organic manure can be applied at the rate of 5-10 tonnes per hectare.
5. Maintenance of soil moisture:
Proper maintenance of soil moisture is essential for the effective utilization of the fertilizers. The soil moisture should be maintained at a sufficient level by providing adequate irrigation to the crop.
In conclusion, proper basal fertilizer management is essential for the healthy growth and optimum yield of black gram. The fertilizer dose should be calculated based on the nutrient content of the soil, and the fertilizers should be applied uniformly. Organic manure application and proper soil moisture maintenance are also essential to get a better yield.