Sure, here’s an article on sowing season and varieties of black gram in rice fallows:
Black gram is an important legume crop grown in India, particularly in states like Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Karnataka. It is known for its nutritional value and is a rich source of protein, fiber, and minerals. Black gram can be grown during the rice fallow season and is an excellent crop option for small and marginal farmers. In this article, we will discuss the sowing season and varieties of black gram suitable for rice fallows.
Sowing Season for Black Gram in Rice Fallows
The best time to sow black gram in rice fallows is in June-July, just after the harvest of the kharif rice crop. The sowing should be done immediately after the first rains to ensure that the soil has enough moisture to support the germination of the seeds. In areas where the soil moisture is less, pre-sowing irrigation may be given to ensure a good seed germination.
Varieties of Black Gram Suitable for Rice Fallows
1. T9 (TNAU 9): This is a high-yielding variety of black gram developed by Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU). It has good resistance to pests and diseases and is suitable for cultivation in the coastal regions of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka.
2. KU-7: This variety is developed by Kerala Agricultural University and is suitable for cultivation in the black soil regions of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. It has a high pest and disease resistance and is a prolific yielder.
3. Vigna mungo 5: This variety is developed by International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) and is well-suited for cultivation in the states of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. It is tolerant to drought and has a good yield potential.
4. TAU-1: This variety is developed by Tamil Nadu Agricultural University and is suitable for cultivation in the coastal regions of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka. It has good resistance to pests and diseases and is a high-yielder.
5. Co-3: This variety is developed by Tamil Nadu Agricultural University and is suitable for cultivation in the black soil regions of Tamil Nadu. It has good resistance to pests and diseases and is a high-yielder.
Conclusion
Black gram is a suitable crop option for rice fallows and can provide a good source of income to small and marginal farmers. The sowing season for black gram in rice fallows is June-July, and there are many varieties available in the market that are well-suited for cultivation in different regions of the country. By selecting the appropriate variety and following good agronomic practices, farmers can get a good yield and increase their income.