Dhaincha, also known as Sesbania or Sesban, is an excellent source of green manure for crops. The seed rate of Dhaincha is an essential factor to consider when planting it as green manure. Here is all you need to know about the seed rate of Dhaincha seed for use as green manure.
What is Dhaincha?
Dhaincha is a fast-growing legume with a nitrogen fixation ability. It is a tropical shrub grown as a forage and cover crop. It is commonly referred to as Sesbania or Sesban. Dhaincha is known for its high biomass and leaf production, which makes it an excellent source of organic matter for soil improvement. Its nitrogen-fixing ability also makes it a good source of nitrogen for crops.
Why is Dhaincha Excellent as Green Manure?
Green manure is a practice of incorporating plant material into the soil to improve soil fertility. Dhaincha is an ideal green manure crop as it adds crop residues to the soil and fixes nitrogen. The biomass produced by Dhaincha contributes to soil organic matter, which helps improve soil structure and fertility. Additionally, the nitrogen fixed by Dhaincha can be used by other crops grown in rotation.
What is the Seed Rate of Dhaincha for Green Manure?
The seed rate of Dhaincha depends on the intended purpose of planting. A higher seed rate is used for the production of biomass, while a lower seed rate is used to enhance nitrogen fixation. The recommended seed rate of Dhaincha for green manure production is between 10-20 kg per acre.
It is essential to use quality seeds when planting Dhaincha for green manure. Quality seeds germinate faster and produce stronger seedlings that can compete with weeds. Additionally, planting at the right time ensures the best growth and yield of Dhaincha.
Conclusion
Dhaincha is an outstanding green manure crop that adds value to the soil. With its nitrogen-fixing ability and high biomass production, it provides an excellent source of organic matter, improves soil fertility, and reduces environmental damage. The recommended seed rate of Dhaincha for green manure production is 10-20 kg per acre. Using quality seeds and planting at the right time is essential to achieve the best results.