Irrigation Management Details for Bengal Gram Crop
Bengal gram, also known as chickpea, is an important pulse crop grown widely in India. It is a cool-season crop that requires adequate moisture for proper growth and development. With a proper irrigation management strategy, farmers can obtain a higher yield and quality of the crop. In this article, we will discuss the key irrigation management details for Bengal gram crop.
Soil Moisture Monitoring
Monitoring the soil moisture level is an important aspect of irrigation management. Soil moisture sensors or tensiometers can be used to determine the soil moisture content in the root zone. These tools can help farmers determine when is the right time to irrigate the crop. Bengal gram crop requires regular irrigation to maintain the moisture content in the root zone.
Irrigation Frequency and Amount
The irrigation frequency and amount depend on the soil type, climate, and stage of crop growth. The crop requires uniform irrigation during its life cycle. In the early growth stages, irrigation can be done once in four to five days. During the flowering and pod filling stages, irrigation can be done once in three to four days. Bengal gram crop requires about 600-800 mm of water during the entire crop cycle. The amount of water to be applied depends on the soil type and the prevailing weather conditions.
Irrigation Methods
Several irrigation methods can be utilized for Bengal gram crop. Flood irrigation is not recommended as it leads to waterlogging and disease problems. Drip irrigation and sprinkler irrigation are preferred methods as they provide uniform moisture to the root zone. Drip irrigation is highly beneficial as it conserves water by directing water to the root zone. Sprinkler irrigation is also beneficial as it can lower the temperature and reduce disease pressure.
Fertilizer Application
The fertilizer application should be synchronized with the irrigation schedule. Fertilizer can be applied through drip irrigation or mixed with the irrigation water. The nutrient requirement for Bengal gram crop is different for each growth stage. Nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are the most essential nutrients, and their application should be done in the right quantity and at the right stage of crop growth.
Conclusion
Irrigation management is a critical aspect of Bengal gram crop production. Monitoring the soil moisture content and applying water at the right frequency and quantity can significantly enhance the crop yield and quality. Farmers should opt for drip or sprinkler irrigation methods to provide uniform moisture to the crop while reducing water wastage. Proper synchronization of fertilizer application with the irrigation schedule can also help to enhance the crop’s nutrient uptake and yield.