Black gram, also known as urad dal, is an important legume crop that is widely cultivated in India and other parts of Asia. It is a highly nutritious crop and is an integral part of the Indian diet. The sowing season and the different varieties of black gram play a crucial role in its cultivation and yield. Let’s delve deeper into these aspects.
The ideal sowing season for black gram typically begins in the month of June and extends until August. These months are considered ideal for sowing as they coincide with the onset of the monsoon season in India. The availability of sufficient moisture during this time ensures proper germination and growth of the crop. It is essential to sow black gram during the monsoon season as excessive irrigation is not required, and the crop can utilize the rainfall efficiently.
When it comes to black gram varieties, there are several popular ones grown in India. These varieties exhibit variations in terms of their growth habit, yield potential, and resistance to pests and diseases. Some commonly cultivated black gram varieties include:
1. T-9: This variety is known for its high yield potential and resistance to yellow mosaic virus, a common disease affecting black gram. T-9 matures in about 80-85 days and has a bushy growth habit, making it suitable for both intercropping and standalone cultivation.
2. Pant U-19: Developed by the Pantnagar University in Uttarakhand, this variety is known for its tolerance to heat and adverse climatic conditions. Pant U-19 also exhibits resistance to powdery mildew and matures in around 75-80 days.
3. ADT-3: This variety is well-suited for cultivation in Southern India, particularly in Tamil Nadu. ADT-3 has a semi-erect growth habit and is resistant to yellow mosaic virus. It matures in approximately 80-85 days and produces good-quality grains.
4. PU-30: Developed by Punjab Agricultural University, PU-30 is a high-yielding black gram variety. It has a determinate growth habit, which makes it suitable for mechanized harvesting. PU-30 matures in around 75-80 days and is resistant to wilt disease.
5. CO-5: This variety, developed by the Agricultural College and Research Institute in Tamil Nadu, is known for its high yield potential and adaptability to various agro-climatic conditions. CO-5 has an indeterminate growth habit and matures within 75-80 days.
These are just a few examples of the black gram varieties cultivated in India. Each variety has its own unique characteristics and can be chosen based on factors such as region, climate, and disease prevalence.
In conclusion, black gram is a versatile legume crop with significant nutritional value. Sowing black gram during the monsoon season ensures successful cultivation, while choosing the appropriate variety can optimize yield and overcome challenges posed by pests and diseases. Farmers should consider the local conditions and consult agricultural experts to select the most suitable black gram variety for their specific requirements.