Bengal gram, also known as chickpea, is a valuable legume crop that is widely cultivated in India and other parts of the world. To achieve maximum yield and quality of the crop, proper irrigation management is crucial. In this article, we will discuss the irrigation management details specific to Bengal gram crop.
Irrigation scheduling
The schedule of irrigation for Bengal gram crop mainly depends on the soil type, monsoon pattern, and growth stage of the crop. In general, the crop requires moisture around its root zone during a critical growth period, usually from flowering to pod formation. During this period, Bengal gram requires irrigation at an interval of 7-10 days. The frequency of the irrigation should be increased during the dry spell, and the irrigation interval should be decreased during the rainy season.
Irrigation method
The most common irrigation methods used for Bengal gram are surface irrigation, drip irrigation, and sprinkler irrigation. Surface irrigation is the traditional method of irrigation, where water is allowed to flow over the soil surface. This method is inexpensive and easy to use but often results in low water distribution efficiency. Drip irrigation and sprinkler irrigation are more efficient ways of irrigating the crop. Drip irrigation is a form of micro-irrigation where water is applied directly to the root zone of the plant through a network of pipes and emitters. This method conserves water and reduces weed growth. Sprinkler irrigation, on the other hand, is a method where water is sprayed over the plant canopy like rain. This method is useful in warmer regions, where the crop is susceptible to heat stress.
Water requirement
The water requirement for Bengal gram crop varies depending on factors such as soil type, climatic conditions, crop variety, and growth stage. On average, the crop requires 500-600 mm of water throughout the growing season. However, this value may vary depending on the region and the crop variety.
Soil moisture monitoring
Soil moisture monitoring is a crucial aspect of irrigation management in Bengal gram. Farmers should monitor soil moisture levels regularly to ensure that the crop is receiving the optimum amount of water. Farmers can use a soil moisture probe to measure the moisture content of the soil. A soil moisture probe is a device that measures the electrical conductivity of the soil to determine the moisture content.
In conclusion, irrigation management is a critical component of growing a high-yielding Bengal gram crop. Farmers should ensure that the crop is receiving a steady supply of water at the right time and in the right quantity to achieve the best results. By following proper irrigation management practices, farmers can improve the yield and quality of their harvest, ensuring a profitable and sustainable crop.