Seed Rate and Sowing Time in Gram Crop
Gram crop, commonly known as chickpea, is one of the most important crops grown throughout the world for its edible seeds. It is a cool-season crop that belongs to the legume family and is known for its high protein and carbohydrate content. Gram is mostly grown in arid and semi-arid regions, and it requires a shorter duration of about 100-120 days from sowing to harvesting. However, seed rate and sowing time are two crucial factors that determine the growth, yield, and quality of gram crop.
Seed Rate:
Seed rate refers to the quantity of seeds required per unit of area. It is an essential factor that directly influences the stand establishment, plant growth, and yield potential of the crop. The optimum seed rate for gram crop varies depending on the soil type, climatic conditions, and planting technique. Generally, the recommended seed rate for gram is 15-20 kg/ha for normal sowing and 20-25 kg/ha for late sowing.
The seed rate should always be adjusted based on seed germination percentage, seed size, and purity. Using low-quality seeds or excessive seed rate can result in poor plant stand, lodging, and low yield. Therefore, it is essential to use certified seeds with a high germination percentage and adjust the seed rate according to the sowing time and soil type.
Sowing Time:
Sowing time is another critical factor that affects the growth and yield of the gram crop. Gram is a cool-season crop that prefers moderate temperatures ranging from 15-25°C. The optimum sowing time for gram varies depending on the location, climatic conditions, and soil type. Generally, the recommended sowing time for gram is between October to November, depending on the local weather conditions.
Late sowing beyond November can result in low yield due to short days, high temperature, and moisture stress during the flowering and grain filling stage. Similarly, early sowing before October can expose the crop to severe pest and disease incidence and unfavorable weather conditions.
Conclusion:
In a nutshell, seed rate and sowing time are two crucial factors that affect the growth, yield, and quality of the gram crop. Therefore, farmers must use certified seeds with a high germination percentage and adjust the seed rate according to the sowing time and soil type. Additionally, they must choose the right sowing time to ensure proper crop growth, flowering, and grain filling stages, and avoid exposure to pests and diseases. With proper management practices, gram crop can yield high-quality seeds that can contribute significantly to the world’s food security.