Title: Brown Sarson Sowing: Varieties and Cultural Practices
Introduction:
Brown sarson, scientifically known as Brassica rapa subsp. trilocularis, is an important winter oilseed crop widely grown in India. With its high oil content and adaptive nature, brown sarson is known for its nutritional value and economic significance. This article aims to provide an overview of brown sarson sowing, popular varieties, and cultural practices.
Varieties:
1. Pusa Mahak – This variety is popular for its superior oil content and suitability for cultivation in the Northern Plains of India. Pusa Mahak has a medium duration and high yield potential, making it a preferred choice for farmers.
2. Pusa Basant – Known for its shiny brown seeds with high-quality oil, this variety exhibits resistance against diseases like Alternaria blight and powdery mildew. Pusa Basant is well-suited for cultivation in the states of Punjab and Haryana.
3. Pusa Brown Sarson 1 – This variety is valued for its high yield potential and tolerance to adverse weather conditions. With its early maturity, Pusa Brown Sarson 1 is suitable for regions with a shorter growing season.
Cultural Practices:
Soil Preparation:
Brown sarson thrives best in well-drained loamy soils with a neutral pH of 6.5 to 7.5. Adequate soil preparation is crucial for optimum growth. Begin by plowing the field 2-3 times to attain a fine tilth, ensuring proper incorporation of organic matter like well-decomposed farmyard manure.
Sowing Time:
Brown sarson is typically sown during September to October, ensuring it gets the maximum benefit of the winter season. Timely sowing plays a crucial role in the crop’s development and overall yield.
Seed Treatment:
Before sowing, it is advisable to treat the seeds with fungicides or bio-agents to protect them from seed-borne diseases. Seed treatment helps ensure healthy germination and better crop establishment.
Seed Rate and Spacing:
The recommended seed rate for brown sarson is 3-4 kg per acre. Sow the seeds by broadcasting or line sowing method, with a row-to-row spacing of 25-30 cm. Maintain a plant-to-plant spacing of 10-15 cm, allowing sufficient space for the healthy growth of plants.
Fertilizer Application:
Apply well-balanced fertilizers based on soil testing results. Usually, 100 kg nitrogen, 50 kg phosphorus, and 35 kg potassium per hectare are recommended for brown sarson cultivation. Split the fertilizers into two to three doses during the crop’s growth stages to ensure optimum nutrient availability.
Irrigation:
Irrigation plays a vital role in the success of brown sarson cultivation. Provide irrigation immediately after sowing to establish the crop. Subsequently, maintain a regular irrigation schedule, keeping the soil moisture level optimal throughout the crop’s growth period.
Weed Control:
Timely and effective weed control measures are essential to ensure unhindered growth and maximum yield. Manual weeding or the use of herbicides can be employed as per the farmer’s preference and the extent of weed infestation.
Conclusion:
Brown sarson cultivation offers numerous economic benefits to farmers while contributing to the country’s edible oil production. By choosing appropriate varieties, implementing proper cultural practices, and ensuring careful crop management, farmers can maximize their yield potential and enjoy the nutritional and financial gains associated with brown sarson sowing.