Title: Sowing Time and Seed Rate for Dhaicha Green Manure Crop
Introduction:
Dhaicha (Sesbania aculeata) is a highly beneficial leguminous plant used as a green manure crop. It is known for its ability to improve soil fertility, fixed atmospheric nitrogen, and enhance crop productivity. To obtain maximum benefits from dhaicha as a green manure crop, it is essential to understand the ideal sowing time and seed rate. In this article, we will explore the best practices for sowing dhaicha and determining the appropriate seed rate.
Sowing Time for Dhaicha Green Manure Crop:
Sowing time plays a crucial role in achieving successful establishment and growth of the dhaicha crop. The climatic conditions may vary in different regions, so it is essential to choose the appropriate sowing season accordingly.
Generally, dhaicha is sown during the summer or rainy season when the soil is moist and the temperatures range between 25-35°C (77-95°F). Depending on your location, the sowing time for dhaicha can vary. In tropical and subtropical regions, it can be sown from April to July, while in temperate regions, it is best to sow the crop from May to August.
Seed Rate for Dhaicha Green Manure Crop:
Determining the correct seed rate for dhaicha ensures optimal plant population and vigorous growth. The seed rate may depend on factors such as soil fertility, desired yield, and the purpose of sowing (sole cropping or intercropping).
In general, the recommended seed rate for dhaicha is around 10-12 kilograms per hectare (7-9 pounds per acre). However, if you plan to use dhaicha as a sole crop, you can increase the seed rate to up to 15 kilograms per hectare (11 pounds per acre) for obtaining higher biomass production and nitrogen fixation.
For intercropping purposes, where dhaicha is grown alongside other crops, the seed rate can be reduced to 6-8 kilograms per hectare (4-6 pounds per acre). This allows for sufficient spacing between plants, minimizing competition for nutrients and water.
Sowing Techniques:
Proper sowing techniques help ensure uniform distribution of seeds and facilitate optimum germination and growth. Here are some guidelines to follow while sowing dhaicha seeds:
1. Seedbed Preparation: Prepare a well-drained seedbed by plowing or digging the soil thoroughly. Remove any weeds or debris that may hinder seed germination.
2. Seed Treatment: It is recommended to treat the dhaicha seeds with a fungicide or biofertilizer before sowing. This enhances their germination rate and protects against seed-borne diseases.
3. Seed Distribution: Distribute the seeds evenly over the prepared seedbed. If sowing in rows, maintain a row-to-row spacing of about 30-40 centimeters (12-16 inches). Scatter the seeds uniformly within the rows, ensuring a distance of 5-8 centimeters (2-3 inches) between seeds.
4. Seed Depth: Cover the seeds with soil to a depth of about 2-3 centimeters (0.8-1.2 inches). It is important not to bury the seeds too deep, as this may hinder their germination.
5. Irrigation: After sowing, provide light irrigation to facilitate germination. However, avoid excessive watering, as it may lead to waterlogging and affect seedling emergence.
Conclusion:
Sowing time and seed rate are critical factors that determine the success of dhaicha as a green manure crop. By sowing dhaicha during the appropriate season and following the recommended seed rate, farmers can optimize biomass production, fix atmospheric nitrogen, and improve soil fertility. Following proper sowing techniques will further promote uniform growth and establishment of the dhaicha crop, enabling farmers to reap the benefits of this highly valuable green manure plant.