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Bengal gram, also known as chickpea or garbanzo bean, is an important legume crop that is widely cultivated in India and neighboring regions. It is a rich source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, and used in a variety of dishes such as hummus, dal, chana masala, and falafel. However, like all crops, Bengal gram is prone to various pests, diseases, and environmental stresses that can reduce its growth and yield. In this article, we will discuss some ways to increase the growth of Bengal gram crop:
1. Choose the right variety: Bengal gram has several cultivars that differ in their growth habits, maturity periods, and resistance to diseases. Choose a variety that is well-suited to your soil type, climate, and farming practices. Some popular varieties are JG-11 (early maturing), ICCV-92704 (drought tolerant), BG-1053 (resistant to wilt), and Pusa-362 (high yielding).
2. Prepare the soil: Bengal gram prefers well-drained, sandy loam soil with a pH of 6.5-7.5. Before sowing, plow the field thoroughly and remove any weeds, rocks, or debris. Apply organic manure or compost to enrich the soil with nutrients and improve its structure. Also, avoid waterlogging or soil compaction, as they can hinder root growth and nutrient uptake.
3. Sow at the right time: Bengal gram is a cool season crop that can be sown in the months of October-November (winter crop) or February-March (spring crop). The ideal sowing depth is 5-8 cm, and the spacing between rows and plants should be 30-45 cm and 10-15 cm, respectively. Use certified seeds that are free from pests and diseases, and treat them with a fungicide or bio-control agent to enhance germination and seedling vigor.
4. Provide adequate water: Bengal gram requires moderate amounts of water during its growth stages, especially the vegetative and flowering phases. Ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged, and avoid drought stress or excess irrigation. Depending on your climate and soil type, you may need to irrigate once/twice a week or as per the crop’s water requirement.
5. Control pests and diseases: Bengal gram is susceptible to several pests and diseases, such as pod borer, gram caterpillar, fusarium wilt, and ascochyta blight, among others. Monitor your crop regularly and use eco-friendly bio-pesticides or cultural practices to control or prevent their infestations. You can also seek the advice of your local agricultural extension agency or consultant for specific recommendations.
6. Harvest and post-harvest management: Bengal gram takes about 90-120 days to mature, depending on the variety and season. Harvest the crop when the pods turn brown or yellow and dry out, and thresh them using a machine or manually. Store the grains in a dry, cool, and well-ventilated place to avoid moisture, heat, pests, or fungal growth. You can also process them into various value-added products, such as roasted gram, besan (gram flour), or sprouts, which have higher market value and longer shelf life.
In summary, increasing the growth of Bengal gram crop requires a combination of good agronomic practices, suitable variety selection, and pest and disease management. By following these tips, you can improve your yield and quality of this nutritious and versatile crop.