As one of the most important crops in India, Bengal gram has emerged as a leading source of protein and other essential nutrients in recent times. However, the successful cultivation of Bengal gram depends on several factors including the right fertilizers. The use of fertilizers is essential for maintaining the health and well-being of the crop and increasing yields. In this article, we will discuss the fertilizer dose information for Bengal gram crop.
Types of Fertilizers for Bengal Gram
Bengal gram needs a balanced supply of macro and micronutrients for its healthy growth. Some of the vital nutrients that this crop requires include nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, sulfur, and boron, among others. These nutrients can be provided to the soil through various types of fertilizers that can be applied at different stages of the crop.
Nitrogen (N) Fertilizers
Nitrogen fertilizers are essential for the vegetative growth stage of the Bengal gram. The recommended dose of nitrogen per hectare is 50-60 kg (urea) depending on the soil conditions. However, too much nitrogen can lead to excessive vegetative growth, delaying flowering and pod formation.
Phosphorus (P) Fertilizers
Phosphorus plays a critical role in the development of roots and seed formation in Bengal gram. It is vital to apply phosphorus in the early stages of the crop growth. The recommended dose of phosphorus per hectare is 60-80 kg (Diammonium phosphate) depending on the soil fertility.
Potassium (K) Fertilizers
Potassium is another essential nutrient required by Bengal gram to promote strong stems, improve resistance against pests and diseases, and increase seed size and quality. The recommended dose of potassium per hectare is 20-30 kg (Muriate of Potash) depending on the soil condition.
Micronutrient Fertilizers
Apart from the macro-nutrients, micronutrients play a critical role in plant growth and development. Some of the essential micronutrients include zinc, sulfur, and boron. Apply 10 kg/ha zinc sulfate, 30 kg/ha sulfur and 2.5 kg/ha borax as micronutrient fertilizers.
Conclusion
Bengal gram is a vital crop that requires the proper dose of fertilizers at the right time for healthy growth and optimal yields. To ensure that the crop gets the required nutrients, it is necessary to conduct soil tests to determine the soil’s nutrient status, pH, and organic matter content. This will help determine the most appropriate fertilizer and dosage for a crop at different stages of growth. Therefore, adopting the recommended fertilizer doses will guarantee a higher yield of Bengal gram and improved soil health.