Irrigation Management Details of Green Gram Crop
Green gram, also known as mung bean or moong in some countries, is one of the most important legume crops grown around the world. This crop is highly valued for its high protein content, nutrition, and economic value. However, green gram requires adequate and proper irrigation management for optimal growth, development, and productivity. Below are some irrigation management details of green gram crop.
Water Requirement and Frequency
Green gram requires an adequate amount of water for proper growth and development. The crop requires 450 to 500 mm of water during its growth period. However, the water requirement may vary depending on the soil type, climate, and stage of growth. It is essential to maintain the soil moisture content at 60-70% of the field capacity throughout the growth period. Irrigation should be given when the soil moisture is around 50-60%. Water stress should be avoided during flowering and pod formation to prevent yield losses.
Irrigation Methods
Irrigation methods play a vital role in green gram production. The most common irrigation methods used for green gram include surface irrigation, sprinkler irrigation, and drip irrigation. Surface irrigation is the traditional and most common method used by farmers. However, it has some disadvantages, such as water logging, soil erosion, and wastage of water. Sprinkler irrigation and drip irrigation are more efficient and sustainable water management methods for green gram crop, as they conserve water, prevent wastage, and improve the crop yield.
Time of Irrigation
The time of irrigation is crucial for the success of green gram production. It is advisable to irrigate the crop early in the morning or late in the evening, as the atmospheric temperature is low, and the evapotranspiration rate is minimum. Avoid irrigating the crop during the hottest part of the day, as this can cause water stress and reduce the yield. Irrigation should also be avoided during the rainy season, as excessive water can lead to rotting of the crop.
Conclusion
Green gram is a valuable crop that requires proper irrigation management for optimal growth and development. Water management is crucial in green gram production, as it affects the yield, quality, and profitability of the crop. The water requirement, frequency, method, and time of irrigation should be carefully planned and managed to ensure success in green gram production. Farmers should also adopt sustainable irrigation practices such as drip irrigation and sprinkler irrigation, which conserve water, reduce wastage, and improve green gram crop yield.