Onion is one of the most popular and widely consumed vegetables across the world. It is a crop that can be grown during both kharif and rabi seasons. In India, the rabi onion crop is sown during late September to November and harvested during February to April. Onion cultivation is a lucrative business, and the crop requires significant inputs, including seed rate, to obtain a good yield.
Seed rate is the amount of seeds required per unit area for sowing. It plays a crucial role in determining the yield of a crop. Usually, the seed rate for onions depends on various factors like soil type, variety, location, etc. For the rabi season, an adequate amount of seeds is needed for optimum crop growth.
For the rabi season, the recommended seed rate for onions varies between 2-3 kg per acre, depending on the variety. The krishi vigyan Kendra recommends the following seed rates for popular onion varieties.
1. N-53: 2.5 Kg per acre
2. Arka Ujjawal: 2 Kg per acre
3. Agrifound Dark Red: 2 Kg per acre
Apart from varieties, the spacing of onion plants can also determine the seed rate. For instance, if the spacing is 25×10 cm, the seed rate per acre for onion will be around 2.5-3 kg. If the spacing is 15×10 cm, the seed rate will increase to 3.5 kg per acre. A higher seed rate can lead to overcrowding in the field and stunted growth.
Using quality seeds is a crucial factor in determining the yield of an onion crop. Farmers should procure seeds from reliable and certified sources like government seed agencies, Krishi Vigyan Kendras, or reputable seed companies. Using quality seeds will result in healthier plants and a higher yield.
In conclusion, seed rate is an essential factor for obtaining a good onion crop yield during the rabi season. Farmers are recommended to use high-quality seeds and follow recommended seed rates for the variety and spacing. By following these simple guidelines, farmers can ensure a successful onion crop and a profitable harvest.