Bengal gram, also known as chana or chickpea, is an important pulse crop grown in several parts of India, including the state of Maharashtra. The crop is favored for its high nutritional value, versatility in cooking, and low input requirements. However, to achieve maximum yield potential and quality, certain cultural practices need to be followed by farmers. In this article, we will discuss the common cultural practices required to grow Bengal gram crop.
Land Preparation
Bengal gram grows well in well-drained soils, rich in organic matter and with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. The first step in land preparation is to clear the area of weeds and crop debris from the previous season. Farmers must keep in mind the time of sowing and prepare the land accordingly. The soil should be thoroughly tilled, and weeds should be removed from the field before sowing the seeds.
Seed Selection And Sowing
Farmers must source high-quality seeds from a reliable source. The selected seeds need to be cleaned and treated with recommended fungicides to protect them against potential fungal infections. Sowing of seeds can either be done through broadcasting or drilling, depending on the farming system. The sowing depth of seeds should be about 3-5 cm. The optimum time of sowing for Bengal gram in Maharashtra is usually between September to October, just before the onset of monsoon rains.
Nutrient Management
Bengal gram requires adequate amounts of nutrients for optimum growth and higher yield. The crop is known to be sensitive to excess moisture and nitrogen fertilizers. Hence, farmers need to follow recommended nutrient management practices by applying inorganic fertilizers like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. However, balanced nutrient management is essential to avoid soil fertility depletion and the accumulation of excessive salts in the soil, which can harm the crop. The use of organic manure like cow and poultry manure can also benefit the crop.
Irrigation
Bengal gram requires moderate to low moisture levels for proper growth. The crop is sensitive to excess moisture and waterlogging, which can lead to the development of root rot, and other fungal infections. Therefore, farmers need to follow a careful irrigation schedule to avoid over-irrigation, especially when the crop is in the flowering and grain-filling stage.
Weed Control
Weed management is an essential cultural practice in Bengal gram cultivation. The crop is susceptible to weed competition, which can reduce yields. Farmers can use conventional methods like hand weeding, hoeing, and intercultural cultivation to control weed growth. However, the use of pre-emergent and post-emergent herbicides is more effective in managing weed growth.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the cultural practices followed by farmers play a crucial role in the success of Bengal gram crops. By following recommended practices such as land preparation, seed selection and sowing, nutrient management, irrigation, and weed control, farmers can achieve higher yields and improve the quality of the crop. It is essential to consult local agricultural experts and follow best practices to ensure the success of Bengal gram cultivation.