As the monsoon season approaches in Villupuram district, farmers are preparing themselves for the sesame sowing season. Sesame crops are widely grown in this region due to the favourable climatic conditions that support the cultivation of this oilseed. The sesame sowing season generally commences from mid-June and lasts up to mid-July.
The farmers in Villupuram district have been cultivating sesame crops for ages. The reason being the high yield that sesame crops offer with very little input cost. Sesame sowing is generally done in dry soil with minimal moisture, which turns into a bushy plant that needs little attention. During the sowing season, farmers choose from a variety of sesame seed varieties to cultivate according to their soil type, weather conditions, and demand in the market.
Some of the most popular sesame seed varieties that farmers choose to cultivate during the sowing season include Black Sesame, White Sesame, and Brown Sesame. Each variety has its unique set of characteristics that make it suitable for cultivation in different environments. For instance, Black sesame seeds are known for their medicinal properties, while the White sesame seed variety is famous for its high oil content.
During the sowing season, farmers prepare their fields for the sesame crop. The soil is plowed and prepared, and then the seeds are sown at a depth of around one to two centimetres. Once the sowing process is complete, the fields are irrigated, and then farmers wait for the seedlings to germinate.
The sesame sowing season is crucial for the farmers in Villupuram district as it is the start of their harvest season. The harvest process takes place approximately 90 to 100 days post-sowing. During the harvest season, the farmers use mechanical machines to cut and collect the plants, which are then dried before being taken for processing.
The production of sesame crops in Villupuram district has been on the rise due to increased demand in the market. Indian sesame seeds have a global reputation for their excellent quality, and farmers in Villupuram have taken advantage of this opportunity to increase their earnings.
In conclusion, the sesame sowing season is a vital period for farmers in Villupuram district. The variety of sesame seeds available to choose from during this season is vast, and farmers make sure to select the best variety according to their soil type and market demand. With the continued growth in global demand for sesame seeds, farmers are optimistic about continuing to yield profitable harvests in the future.