Late Sown Varieties of Mustard Crop: Information and Recommendations
Mustard (Brassica spp.) is an essential oilseed crop cultivated worldwide for its seeds, oil, and greens. It belongs to the Brassicaceae family, which also includes cabbage, broccoli, and kale. In favorable conditions, mustard can be sown in the optimum window to ensure a high yield. However, due to various reasons such as weather conditions or other cropping practices, farmers may find themselves sowing mustard late in the season. In this article, we will discuss the late sown varieties of mustard crop, their characteristics, and provide some recommendations for farmers.
Late sowing refers to the process of planting mustard seeds after the ideal sowing window has passed. This situation often arises when farmers miss the prime time due to delays or other agricultural commitments, such as harvesting previous crops. Late sown varieties of mustard are specifically bred to adapt and perform well under such conditions.
Late sown varieties of mustard have a shorter lifecycle compared to the regular varieties. They are genetically modified to hasten their growth, maturity, and subsequent harvest. These varieties exhibit traits such as early flowering and early maturity, ensuring farmers can still achieve a decent yield even with late sowing.
Here are some renowned late sown varieties of mustard that farmers can consider:
1. Varuna: It is a popular late sown variety known for its early maturity and high oil content in seeds. Varuna can be sown in November and harvested in February. Its average yield per hectare ranges from 15 to 20 quintals.
2. RH 30: This variety is suitable for late sowing and is known for its high yield potential. RH 30 can be sown between October and November and is ready for harvest within 80 to 85 days. It produces approximately 18 to 22 quintals of oilseed per hectare.
3. RH 0741: RH 0741 is a high-yielding variety that performs well even under late sowing conditions. It has a maturity duration of 85-90 days and yields around 25 to 30 quintals per hectare.
4. RGN 514: Another promising variety for late sowing, RGN 514, has a maturity duration of 95-105 days and provides an average yield of 20 to 25 quintals per hectare.
When sowing mustard late in the season, it is crucial to follow a few key recommendations for optimal crop performance:
1. Seed Selection: Choose certified seeds of late sown mustard varieties from reputed agricultural institutes or seed suppliers to ensure genetic purity and desired traits.
2. Seed Rate: Increase the seed rate slightly to compensate for the shorter growing period. Aim for around 8-10 kg/ha, depending on the variety and local conditions.
3. Soil Preparation: Prepare the field thoroughly by plowing, discing, and leveling to provide a favorable seed bed. Incorporate well-decomposed organic matter to enhance soil fertility.
4. Irrigation: Ensure regular irrigation during the growing season to meet the crop’s water requirements. Adequate moisture availability is crucial for the root and overall plant development.
5. Weed Management: Timely and effective weed control is essential, as late sown mustard encounters fierce competition from weeds due to its shorter lifecycle.
6. Nutrient Management: Test the soil for nutrient deficiencies and apply fertilizers accordingly. Maintain the recommended nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) levels to support optimal crop growth.
7. Pest and Disease Management: Monitor the crop regularly for pests and diseases. Take appropriate measures to control any infestation and minimize yield losses.
Late sown varieties of mustard crop present a viable solution for farmers facing delayed sowing situations. By selecting suitable varieties and following recommended agronomic practices, farmers can still achieve a satisfactory yield and ensure their agricultural operations remain profitable.