Bengal gram, also known as chana or chickpeas, is an important legume crop grown throughout the world. It is a rich source of protein, vitamins, and minerals and is widely used in salads, curries, and other dishes. The crop is sensitive to sowing dates and requires proper management to ensure optimum yield. In this article, we will discuss the seed rate of Bengal gram for late sowing.
Late sowing of Bengal gram refers to the sowing of seeds after the optimal sowing date for the crop. In general, the optimal sowing date for Bengal gram is between October and November, depending on the region and the climate. However, there are also situations where a farmer may have to sow the crop after this period due to several reasons, such as delays in land preparation, unseasonal rains, or other climatic factors. In such cases, the seed rate for late sowing plays a crucial role in determining the yield of the crop.
The seed rate for late sowing of Bengal gram is higher than the seed rate for normal sowing. This is because late sowing exposes the crop to various risks, such as fungal diseases, insect pests, and weeds, which can reduce the germination rate and increase the mortality rate of the seeds. Moreover, late sowing reduces the vegetative growth period of the crop, which can affect its yield potential. Therefore, it is essential to sow more seeds to compensate for these risks and to ensure a good stand of healthy plants.
The recommended seed rate for late sowing of Bengal gram is around 35-40 kg/ha. This is higher than the seed rate for normal sowing, which is around 25-30 kg/ha. The higher seed rate compensates for the reduced emergence rate and compensates for other risks associated with late sowing. Additionally, the use of high-quality seeds, proper land preparation, and correct planting techniques can further improve the germination rate and the yield potential of the crop.
In conclusion, late sowing of Bengal gram requires a higher seed rate than normal sowing to ensure a good stand of healthy plants and to compensate for the risks associated with late sowing. Farmers should follow the recommended seed rate and use high-quality seeds, proper land preparation, and correct planting techniques to maximize their yield potential. By adopting these practices, farmers can still achieve good results even when faced with unfavorable weather conditions or other challenges.