Urd crop, also known as black gram, plays a significant role in Indian agriculture, as it is a major source of protein for the country’s population. The crop is widely cultivated in India, particularly in the states of Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Rajasthan, and Tamil Nadu. To ensure a healthy and abundant yield of urd crop, farmers must take several measures to increase its growth. Here are some tips on how to increase the growth of urd crop:
1. Soil Preparation: One of the most crucial aspects of urd cultivation is soil preparation. The soil must be thoroughly plowed, harrowed, and leveled to ensure even planting. It is important to maintain the appropriate soil moisture content based on the crop stage.
2. Seed Selection: Use high-quality urd seeds that are resistant to pests and diseases, have minimum weed seed and foreign matters, and proper germination capacity. Avoid using infected seed lots, poor-quality seeds, and mixed varieties.
3. Proper Sowing: Proper sowing of the urd seed is the key to a successful crop. The recommended sowing depth for urd is 3-4 cm, and the seed should be sown in rows with a distance of 30-45 cm between them. Adequate seed bed preparation ensures good germination and emergence.
4. Fertilizer Application: The application of fertilizer is important for urd crop growth. Application of nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in the form of urea, superphosphate, and muriate of potash is recommended. Apply fertilizer as a basal dose along with the seed and as split doses during the crop cycle.
5. Irrigation: Watering the crop regularly is important for its healthy growth. The urd crop requires frequent irrigation, especially during the flowering and pod development stages. Avoid over-irrigation, which can lead to waterlogging, which can damage roots and lead to stunted growth.
6. Weed Management: Proper weed management is essential to ensure healthy urd growth. Manual weeding, inter-cultivation with appropriate machinery, and chemical weed control are common methods used to combat weeds.
7. Pest and Disease Management: Urd is susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases. Early identification of the problem can prevent disastrous consequences of the plant’s development. Pest and disease control can be achieved through the application of chemicals, or biological control methods.
In conclusion, by following proper measures, farmers can maximize the growth of their urd crops. Good soil preparation, appropriate seed selection, proper sowing, adequate fertilization, irrigation, weed management, and pest and disease control can all substantially increase the yield and quality of urd crops, enabling farmers to secure better profits.