Sure, here’s an article on Cultivation Practices of Wheat ICAR KVK in Bihar.
Wheat is one of the most important staple foods in Bihar, India. In recent years, Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) in Bihar has been working with farmers to improve their wheat cultivation practices. Here are some best practices that farmers in Bihar can follow to maximize their wheat yields.
Selecting seeds:
ICAR KVK recommends farmers use high-quality seeds for wheat cultivation. The seeds should be disease-free and have the potential to produce high yields. Farmers can purchase certified seeds from government seed centers or from reputable seed companies.
Preparing the soil:
Good soil preparation is critical to achieving healthy wheat crops. Farmers should begin preparing their soil at least two months before sowing the seeds by plowing the land and removing any weeds or crops. After that, they should add organic manure like cow dung in the field and mix it uniformly with the soil. This will increase the soil’s fertility and help the wheat plants to grow well.
Sowing:
Farmers should plant seedlings in late October to early December when soil moisture and temperature are optimal for the growth of wheat crops. To plant the seeds, farmers should create furrows in the soil, plant the seeds, and then cover them with soil. They must also ensure adequate spacing between the seedlings.
Watering:
Wheat plants require regular watering to remain healthy. In the first 30-40 days after sowing, farmers must maintain a steady supply of water. They should irrigate the wheat crops at least twice a week if it doesn’t rain. To avoid waterlogging the crops, they should ensure proper drainage facility within their fields.
Pest and Disease Control:
The best way to control pests and diseases is to prevent them from occurring in the first place. Farmers can do this by using clean, disease-free seeds, and practicing crop rotation. Farmers in Bihar should also keep a keen eye on their wheat crops and identify any signs of pests or diseases early. If any signs are found, they must seek advice from agricultural experts in ICAR KVK or contact local Plant Health Clinic to take immediate corrective measures.
Harvesting:
Harvesting is the most critical stage of wheat cultivation. Farmers must harvest their crops at the right time when the wheat plants are mature, the grains are fully developed, and have a specific moisture content. In Bihar, the ideal harvesting season for wheat crops is mid-March to April. After harvesting, the farmers must properly thresh the crops to separate the grains from the chaff and store it in safe storage.
In conclusion, following the recommended wheat cultivation practices by ICAR KVK in Bihar starting from seed selection, soil preparation, sowing, watering, pest and disease control, and harvesting can help farmers dramatically improve their wheat yields and generate more income. Ultimately, this would improve food security and contribute to Bihar’s agricultural development.